game he'll be in top half of Qb's in the conference next year. I've thought all year Barker was the better passer and Gran/Hinshaw did phenomenal job of changing gameplan to minimize Johnson's flaws and to focus on heavy ground game. I've always expected Barker to win the position back IF HEALTHY.
I'm still convinced Barker has (had before surgery) the better arm. However, there are a lot of things that make a good QB besides a strong arm. I now expect Johnson to be the opening starter next year. I'm pleasantly surprised at the progress Johnson has made since Sept. It will be fun to see what kind of progress he makes for the bowl game. I thought Johnson would hold the fort down and someone else would lead the team next year. If he can continue developing his throwing mechanics he could see a big jump next year.
1. He seems to have the confidence of his teammates. This is huge.
2. His deep ball is as good as anyone in the conference.
3. He doesn't get easily rattled.
4. Bounces back well after bad plays. (He had a bunch earlier in the year, but seemed unfazed.)
5. Offers enough running threat to make teams prepare for it.
6. His confidence has grown by leaps and bounds.
Gran/Hinshaw have convinced me they can make coach up players. If Johnson can develop the midrange pass he'll make this offense much better and less predictable. We have a dominant running game and a dangerous deep threat. But, add in the normal 15-20 yard pass and Gran has a full playbook from which to work.
I expect we'll get our first glimpse of his progress during the bowl.
I'm still convinced Barker has (had before surgery) the better arm. However, there are a lot of things that make a good QB besides a strong arm. I now expect Johnson to be the opening starter next year. I'm pleasantly surprised at the progress Johnson has made since Sept. It will be fun to see what kind of progress he makes for the bowl game. I thought Johnson would hold the fort down and someone else would lead the team next year. If he can continue developing his throwing mechanics he could see a big jump next year.
1. He seems to have the confidence of his teammates. This is huge.
2. His deep ball is as good as anyone in the conference.
3. He doesn't get easily rattled.
4. Bounces back well after bad plays. (He had a bunch earlier in the year, but seemed unfazed.)
5. Offers enough running threat to make teams prepare for it.
6. His confidence has grown by leaps and bounds.
Gran/Hinshaw have convinced me they can make coach up players. If Johnson can develop the midrange pass he'll make this offense much better and less predictable. We have a dominant running game and a dangerous deep threat. But, add in the normal 15-20 yard pass and Gran has a full playbook from which to work.
I expect we'll get our first glimpse of his progress during the bowl.
