U-M Could Have A New And Improved Two Headed Monster And QB Next Season
Coming off the worst season in their storied history, the Wolverines football program finds them selves in a very unfamiliar position. While head coach Rich Rodriguez has taken the majority of the heat for this past season, a fair amount of heat has been directed at the play the quarterbacks.
The play was split between Freshman Steven Threet and Sophomore Nick Sheridan and neither man’s play separated themselves as the true number one guy or as the guy to lead this team in the 2009 season. In addition, back ups Freshman Justin Feagin and Sophomore David Cone didn’t impress enough to be considered the front runner heading into next season.
This leads to the question, which will be under center when the Wolverines host the Western Michigan Broncos next September. It may be one of previously named players, or it could be one of these two highly regarded recruits.
We’ll begin with Shavodrick Beaver, a 6’3” 180 pound stud from Wichita Falls, TX. He has the ability to be a dual-threat quarterback, much like Oregon’s Dennis Dixon, which is the prototype for the Rodriguez offensive scheme. Beaver posses average arm strength but is capable of throwing the long ball. Scouts rave most about standing mobility and his ability to roll out of the pocket and make plays with his feet while willing to take a big hit, much like a running back or wide receiver.
Like any blue chipper, Beaver has his detractions as well. Many scouts believe he must make better decisions on when to not run, as he gets happy feet from time to time. He’s also said to be a bit immature but it’s nothing a year or two at a major college program can’t fix.
The other possible future Wolverine is Tate Forcier, a 6’1” 185 pound prodigy from San Diego, CA. For what Forcier lacks in height, he makes with his ability to be a dual threat, much like Beaver. He has exceptional speed but is actually a better passer than scrambler which enables him to create second chances with is feet and then taking full advantage of it. Many feel his number one attribute is his vision on the field and the way he can read and then dissect a defense.
As for his drawbacks, Forcier may only flourish in the right system. Rodriguez’s spread offense would be the perfect fit for this young kid, who many like to compare to a young Jeff Garcia.
Will one of these two young prospects lead the Wolverines back to a bowl game an even a shot at the Big Ten title next season? Only time will tell but both possess the tools and talent to make an immediate impact next season.
