South Florida Football: Two-deep 2017 depth chart projection

Quarterbacks

Starting quarterback: Quinton Flowers
Backup: Brett Kean

The biggest boon for South Florida heading into 2017 is the return of dual-threat star Quinton Flowers at quarterback. One of just three FBS quarterbacks to average over 100 rushing yards per game, Flowers also ranked 16th nationally in passing efficiency. Flowers enters his final season of eligibility as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

This is Flowers’ third year as the starter in Tampa. He flourished in Willie Taggart’s offense, passing for over 5,000 yards and 46 touchdowns and rushing for another 2,500 yards and 30 scores for his career. Should South Florida manage to run the table this season, Flowers could also garner Heisman hype in addition to his spot on the preseason Davey O’Brien Award and Maxwell Award watch lists.

Thus Flowers will once again be the catalyst for the South Florida offense as the team adjusts to a new coaching staff. New offensive coordinator Sterlin Gilbert will probably change little this season as USF transitions through its last season with Flowers on the roster.

Next: Ranking the top 50 CFB players in 2017

Behind Flowers on the depth chart is redshirt sophomore Brett Kean. He will almost certainly earn the backup job once again after claiming it last year as well. In limited action, Kean completed 18 of his 26 passes as a freshman for 129 yards. His first two passes in college both went for touchdowns in last year’s season opener against FCS Towson. Kean has the physical tools to excel, but Strong will hope he isn’t needed much in 2017.