Syracuse Quarterbacks Coach Admits Stalemate in Competition: 'You're as informed as I am'
In the heart of Syracuse's fall camp, the starting quarterback position for the upcoming season against Tennessee remains undecided. Two candidates are vying for the role: redshirt junior transfer Steve Angeli from Notre Dame and redshirt sophomore transfer Rickie Collins from LSU [1][3][5].
Initially, Coach Fran Brown named Collins the starter in April. However, Angeli's impressive performance during spring and summer practices has intensified the competition [2][3][5]. As of mid-August, Coach Brown officially named Angeli the starting quarterback for the Week 1 game against Tennessee on August 30th [2][3][5].
Angeli, a poised pocket passer with veteran experience, is viewed as a strong leader and has shown a solid understanding of offensive football. Collins, on the other hand, is recognised for his stronger arm and greater athleticism [2][3][5].
The coaching staff is focusing on several key attributes during practice and scrimmages leading up to the season opener. These include leadership and mental toughness, execution of the Syracuse offense, improvement, and readiness to compete, arm strength, and athleticism [1][5].
Meanwhile, the Syracuse wide receiver corps has seen a significant boost with the addition of Johntay Cook. Cook, a newcomer, has made a notable impact on the team [4]. Both Angeli and Collins have praised Cook's abilities, with Angeli describing him as an "unbelievable playmaker" [6].
The offensive line has also shown improvement since the spring, thanks to strategic additions through the transfer portal [7]. As the season approaches, Head Coach Fran Brown, Quarterbacks Coach Nunzio Campanile, and Offensive Coordinator Jeff Nixon are keen to see both Collins and Angeli in one more scrimmage before making a final decision [3][5].
The competition between Collins and Angeli is fierce, with both players pushing each other daily to put their best foot forward and secure a starting spot [8]. As the countdown to the season opener continues, the Syracuse community eagerly awaits the final decision on the starting quarterback.
[1] Source 1 [2] Source 2 [3] Source 3 [4] Source 4 [5] Source 5 [6] Source 6 [7] Source 7 [8] Source 8
In the ongoing competition for the starting quarterback position at Syracuse, both Steve Angeli and Rickie Collins are contenders, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Steve Angeli, with his poised pocket passing and leadership skills, has demonstrated a solid understanding of offensive football, while Rickie Collins is known for his stronger arm and greater athleticism.
