Spring camp convinced fans and coaches that Tyler Huntley has the maturity, skillset, and poise to contribute immediately- which is why he shouldn’t see the field in 2016. Historical analysis shows that a redshirt year for talented quarterbacks is critical for their long-term development. Playing time now will hurt Huntley’s ability to be truly extraordinary in years to come.
When Jordan Wynn went down early in 2012, the Utes didn’t have much choice over who to put in at QB: Jon Hays, Dalton Livingston, or one of a handful of true freshmen prospects. Travis Wilson was, literally and figuratively, head and shoulders above the competition in terms of both ceiling and ability to contribute immediately.