College Football: Top spring 2022 QB battles, Part 2
By Dante Pryor
Oregon State: Tristan Gebbia vs. Chance Nolan vs. JT Daniels
Chance Nolan beat Sam Noyer and Tristan Gebbia for the starting job last season. Gebbia transferred from Nebraska but has had trouble staying healthy since arriving in Corvallis. Nolan’s job is to lose, and he could lose it if JT Daniels decides to transfer to Oregon State.
Redshirt freshman Ben Gulbranson is healthy after shoulder surgery and could be a dark horse for the job.
The case for Nolan
Nolan would be the starting quarterback if the season started today. He led the Beavs to a 7-5 regular season, including an upset of Utah. The Saddleback college transfer threw for 19 touchdowns and over 2800 yards. Nolan has shown an ability to run the offense and play well.
The case for Gebbia
Gebbia beat out Nolan for the job in 2020 and lost the job to an injury. So far in spring practice, Gebbia is moving well, demonstrating the hamstring is healed. Gebbia is the veteran who will take care of the ball and put it in the right place.
The case for Daniels
The case for Daniels is simple. If he comes, he starts. Daniels is an upgrade over either quarterback and has the highest ceiling. If Daniels can’t stay healthy, the Beavers have two quality quarterbacks to choose from (hopefully).
What should the Beavers do?
There is no guarantee that Daniels will come to Oregon State. Missouri and West Virginia are also courting the former USC and Georgia quarterback. However, Daniels is the starter upon arrival. Nolan makes the most sense if Daniels goes elsewhere.