3. The Gardner Minshew Heisman talk was premature
The starting quarterback of a Mike Leach offense, Gardner Minshew’s overnight success is far from unbelievable. The Washington State scheme isn’t rocket science and Minshew won’t be the first plug-and-play passer that finds success in an air raid offense. It’s entirely possible for Minshew to be a great quarterback, put up great numbers and not be anywhere near-Heisman worthy. And that’s not meant to be a slight on his accomplishments whatsoever.
Minshew completed 35-of-51 passes for 334 yards, one touchdown and one interception against Cal in #Pac12AfterDark action. It’s a respectable stat line for the transfer quarterback. It’s just nowhere near the numbers put up by someone like Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa, who is in a class of his own at this point.
The shining moment for the Cougs’ passer was the go-ahead touchdown score ending with his first touchdown pass of the evening. When push came to shove and Washington State needed a play, Minshew delivered. Heisman caliber or not, Washington State is glad they have Minshew slinging the rock for their squad.