The Miami Hurricanes offense will have a new signal-caller in 2017. Two key candidates were unimpressive in the spring game, leaving the door open until the fall.
Brad Kaaya‘s departure for the NFL left the Miami Hurricanes offense with a big question mark. Multiple returners and new faces will be competing to replace Kaaya. However, it’s doubtful any of them can emulate his production in year one. On Saturday, the ‘Canes completed their “spring game” and the results were mixed.
According to the Sun Sentinel, leading candidate Malik Rosier completed just 8-of-18 passes for 169 yards for two touchdowns and two interceptions in the spring game. Evan Shirreffs fared even worse completing 7-of-17 passes for 75 yards and a pick.
Evan Shirreffs
At 6-foot-5, 210-pounds, Evan Shirreffs looks the part. However, he lacks in-game experience, his spring games were underwhelming and he’s not athletic like Rosier. In two spring games, he’s gone just 8-of-22 for 86 yards and two interceptions.
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This doesn’t mean he can’t unseat Rosier atop the chart. Spring games aren’t the best indicator for progress or a player’s full-game potential. Brad Kaaya earned his spot as a prototypical pocket passer. Mark Richt lived more with signal callers like Sheriffs than Rosier.
However, as just a redshirt sophomore, he’s still got to progress. Also, if he doesn’t get the job now, he could get it after Rosier leaves two years later.
Malik Rosier
Now, Rosier’s numbers aren’t terrible, but two picks and below 50-percent completion percentage are unacceptable to start in Richt’s offense. His experience alone puts him at the top of chart, but he has to be more consistent. His spring game performance is highly similar to his in-game experience.
In relief of an injured Kaaya in 2015, Rosier completed 7-of-22 passes for 42 yards and two picks against Clemson. In fairness, the Tigers defense is a championship-caliber one. Still, the 2015 Tigers made the freshman pay.
The next week Rosier redeemed himself against a bowl eligible Duke squad. He compiled 272 yards, two touchdowns against one interception on a 69 percent completion percentage. Rosier brings more mobility than Kaaya did, but his accuracy leaves a lot to be desired. After the spring game, he looks to be in the lead still.
N’Kosi Perry
Human highlight reel N’Kosi Perry will work his way into the quarterback conversation simply because of his playmaking. He may not be polished or experienced, but he’s electrifying. The Ocala, Florida product compiled 85 total touchdowns during his high school career.
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Miami hasn’t had a quarterback with his skill set in their history. Jacory Harris could scramble, but he didn’t make game-breaking plays with his legs. He should get an opportunity at the job with both QBs sub-par play.