Texas did it, Ohio State won’t, while two other big-name programs have decided to push it back.
The “it” in this case is publicly naming a starting quarterback, and both Alabama and Florida State were afforded the opportunity at press conferences Monday to go public with a decision. In both cases, the respective head coaches declined.
On the Tide’s depth chart that was released today, all five of their scholarship quarterbacks were included on the two-deep: Jake Coker, Cooper Bateman and Alex Morris -- in that order -- were listed as the co-starters, with Blake Barnett and David Cornwell separated by a slash; some, it should be noted, have speculated that all five were listed as co-starters. At various points throughout summer camp, Coker, the FSU transfer, has been viewed by the media as the front-runner... as has Bateman... as has Morris.
Lat year, Nick Saban waited until a couple of hours before the opener against West Virginia to anoint Blake Sims as the starter over Coker. If Saban decides to go public with the choice, expect a similar timeline prior to this year’s opener against Wisconsin Saturday.
Conversely, FSU could make its decision as early as today.
Jimbo Fisher, who said he’s already made a decision, will opt between a pair of experienced/familiar options, last year’s backup Sean Maguire and Notre Dame grad transfer Everett Golson. Because of his experience with the Irish, some (most?) have pegged Golson as the likely starter. Still others have stated that, due to his familiarity with the system, Maguire is the man to beat.
So, what’s Jimbo’s timeline for a decision to clear up the clutter?
Fisher on QB: "Well know here very soon...very quickly. Very quickly."
— Warchant.com (@Warchant) August 31, 2015
Fisher added that, once the decision is made, he’s sticking with it.
FSU coach Jimbo Fisher said his starting QB won't have to look over his shoulder. There won't be a short leash for the starter.
— Jared Shanker (@Jared_Shanker) August 31, 2015
FSU will open the 2015 season at home against Texas State Saturday.
