Wake Forest Football: Breaking down Demon Deacons’ 2019 QB battle

Jamie Newman

Jamie Newman started the last four games of the 2018 season once Sam Hartman got hurt. He had only played in two games prior to that (Notre Dame and Florida State), games where Wake got beat by multiple touchdowns. Newman threw for 1,083 yards,13 total touchdowns and four interceptions in basically four games as his two other appearances saw limited playing time.

Newman’s first game that he started was an upset win over a ranked NC State team. He threw for 297 yards, three touchdowns and added 44 yards rushing against the Wolfpack and instantly had Wake fans excited. He finished 3-1 as a starter and ended with a come-from-behind win against Memphis in the Birmingham Bowl.

Last year’s backup is a big athlete who is dangerous on the ground and has a strong arm. His ability to use his arm to take shots downfield helped spread the field and open up the offense for Wake when he was under center. He never seemed to get rattled and made some big plays on third down, especially the game against NC State. Wake was down by 10 in the fourth quarter and Newman was poised the whole time demonstrating his ability to step up in big situations.

Here are a few clips of things Newman did well last year and demonstrate what he brings to the table as a starter.

Below is a clip demonstrating Newman’s strong arm and ability to throw it down field. This was a huge conversion in the game against NC State. Also, what a catch by Sage Surratt.

Below is another big conversion on third down by Newman against NC State. Good, strong throw from other side of the field that kept the drive alive and helped lead Wake to a win.

Last clip of Newman shows his ability to run. He is tough to take down and does a good job getting up field.

Newman may be the perfect guy to challenge Hartman for the starting job.