The Texas Longhorns were in tricky quarterback situation last season when starter David Ash was forced to retire a few games into the year due to multiple concussions. Backup Tyrone Swoopes took over from that point, but didn't do much to secure the job, creating questions for 2015. Here's a breakdown of Texas' QB battle for next season:
Tyrone Swoopes
Swoopes passed for 2,409 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions while rushing for four more scores in the 12 games he played in, and many involved in the program think he won't lead a successful team. Those concerns were justified when he passed for just 57 yards in the Longhorns' Texas Bowl loss to Arkansas, and it appears that Strong wants to go in a different direction.
Jerrod Heard
Heard redshirted last year while he bulked up and learned the offense, and quarterbacks coach Shawn Watson said he was “starting to get it” during practice in November. He came to Texas as a four-star dual threat quarterback, and at 6'2", 200 lbs., is faster and much more shifty than Swoopes. He still needs to develop as a passer this spring, but he has time to improve and is the favorite to land the job.
Zach Gentry
Gentry will be a true freshman this season, and the four-star recruit is someone Strong has targeted since he was at Louisville. Gentry already has great size (6'6", 230 lbs.) and is mobile enough to run the offense, but he has the best arm of anyone on this list. The obvious factor that's holding him back is that he still has to learn the offense and adjust to playing in the Big 12.
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