Quarterbacks
It’s too early to tell who will be under center – and “under center” might be an operative term for next season – but DeAndre Presley and Jamal Jackson are both working this spring for an arguably unenviable position to become the successor to Armanti Edwards.
For more on the quarterback situation, you can check out Saturday’s Winston-Salem Journal, but here’s a glimpse of how the two candidates are progressing:
DeAndre Presley
“DeAndre has been impressive running the ball this spring,” said Brad Glenn, ASU’s quarterbacks coach. “I think that’s been his strong point. We knew he could run the ball, but I’ve been impressed with that this spring.
“He has a really strong arm and sometimes, at this point, I think that hurts him because he thinks he can thread the needle sometimes when it’s not there. He has almost too much confidence in his arm. But I think him being a better decision-maker will come with time.”
Jamal Jackson
“He just needs reps and experience and learn the offense better,” Glenn said. “That’s the thing that is holding him back right now. When he knows what’s going on and knows the reads, I think he makes pretty good throws. When he’s out there trying to think about 10 things at once he makes bad throws. Once he gets a better grasp on what we’re trying to do I think it will all come together for him.”
Comparison
Experience, advantage Presley – He has been a quarterback in 10 games, and is a rising junior. Jackson redshirted last season as a freshman. Glenn thinks that time at wide receiver last season has actually helped Presley as a quarterback, strengthening his overall awareness of the offense and recognition of opposing defenses.
Size, advantage Jackson – At 6-3, he is four inches taller than Presley which is an asset in terms of passing. “DeAndre has had some balls batted this spring that Jamal wouldn’t have,” Glenn said. “And Jamal will see some things on some straight drop backs that DeAndre might not be able to see.”
Ability, both have it – “Both have strong arms, but DeAndre has a very strong arm,” Glenn said. “I would say Jamal’s arm strength is above average. I think DeAndre’s arm strength is outstanding.
“I think DeAndre might be a little better runner. He has a little quicker feet. Jamal is more of a strider, but he is a very capable runner.”