JMU Football Practice Kicks Off Without a QB Controversy

JMU had its first football practice of the 2012 season today. Before we get to anything else, let me be the first to say “Thank God.” Coming up with things to write about during the football season is pretty easy. And it’s fun. Coming up with things to write about in the dead of summer isn’t easy. It’s actually kind of hard. Not quite like trying to break 1,000 receiving yards in a season as a JMU wide-receiver hard, but it isn’t a cake-walk. So we’re very glad that that real JMU football is write around the corner. And we’re thrilled that for what seems like the first time in forever, JMU heads into the season with a clear cut number 1 QB.

Justin Thorpe is obviously going to be the starter for the Dukes. And why shouldn’t he considering he’s been on the roster for about 8 years now? Thorpe has never had an extended run as a starter because of injuries and his “sabbatical”. He’s always had the size and athleticism to succeed in the JMU offense. And he showed maturity as a passer when he was on the field last season. For some reason, there still seem to be a least of the portion of the fanbase that doesn’t fully buy-in to Thorpe being “the guy”. It’s sort of crazy when you consider that he’s 11-1 in his last 12 starts against FCS competition. Maybe it’s the curse of expectations. Thorpe was billed as the next Rodney Landers. Those are some big shoes to fill. He might not be Landers, but he’s a pretty good QB in his own right. And the team wins a lot of games when he lines up at QB.

JMU does have a healthy competition for the back-up QB job though. With a slew of talented freshman, plus the much-heralded dual-threat Vanderbilt transfer Lafonte Thorougood, and returning wildcat QB Andre Coble, JMU has some good depth behind center. The freshman each bring a little something different to the table. Michael Birdsong and Ian Fisher are both big guys, with big arms. They measure at 6’4″ 220 lbs 6’6″ and 245 lbs respectively. The speculation is that with size like that, each player could potentially be moved to another position if they don’t shine at QB. Both guys seemed intent on playing QB in college though and Mickey Matthews is going to give them a shot to do it. Taylor Reynolds, the third QB from JMU’s much heralded recruiting class, doesn’t have the size of Birdsong or Fisher, but he displayed the sort running ability in high school that Coach Matthews loves.

While the back-up job is officially up for grabs, the smart money is on Thorougood to emerge and secure the spot. He already used his redshirt year while at Vanderbilt, so he’s going to be on the active roster. The 3 freshman on the other hand, can each be redshirted so they can mature a bit more before seeing the field. And one practice into the 2012 season, I’m betting that’s how it will play out.