College QB stats, what does it mean for Panthers?

[bigjohn]

Stats don't mean a ton when going from college to NFL. You can look at completion percentage and yardage and TD/Int ratio, but a lot of it just depends on the system they run in. Good spread option QB's are going to have more impressive stats. The NFL is a whole different ball game. A smaller QB isn't going to be given a chance (AE) because it's harder to see over the huge offensive lines and durability is always an issue, even if they put up tremendous numbers in college. Plus the NFL is a copycat league (if AE got a shot as a starter and played lights out, you'd see other teams copy it--just sayin').

The eyeball test means as much as stats I think. If you fit that prototype size-wise, that gives you a head up.

Stats don't show that you can throw that 15 and out on a laser.

Stats don't show that you step up into the pocket instead of running to the outside (which you can get away with in college some, but not in the NFL).

And it's not all about the competition you play against (Flacco).

So basically, it's all a crapshoot.

[Icege]

Steve Smith's a receiver. QB is a way more mental position.

It was in response to all of the mentions of physical stature. If these were the most important variables than Smitty (at least in that line of questioning) had no business being in the NFL

[panthers55]

While not exactly Urban Myer's spread, it's pretty damn close. Malzahn uses simple schemes and runs them at a "break neck" pace. He reminds me a lot of how Vince Young was at Texas.

You confuse offensive plays for offensive philosophy and basic scheme. The option spread is a run based offense where the spread run by Houston or ECU for example is a pass oriented offense. The philosophy is very different. Malzahn comes from a passing background and is a strong proponent for a balanced offense.

Malzahn is primarily a passing spread proponent not running. He is credited with developing the wildcat while at Arkansas.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gus_Malzahn

[TheRealDeal]

Yeah, that's exactly what I was getting at. Clausen has the desire and drive, and I would argue that he has all the physical tools he needs to be successful. He certainly has the background and training. The question is whether he has what it takes between the ears.

Even if he's not a genius, he could still be successful but that requires a good offensive coach.

And I would actually argue that he has none of the physical tools he needs to be successful.