Eli Holstein may be alone atop the Week 2 depth chart, after making a successful debut against Kent State, but Nate Yarnell is still in the picture.
Pat Narduzzi named Holstein the starter against Cincinnati this weekend, but whenever Narduzzi mentions Holstein, Yarnell usually isn’t far behind.
The plan for the season opener was for both Holstein and Yarnell to receive some snaps. Holstein played just over three quarters, and Yarnell finished the game. And there’s still some consideration to get Yarnell some snaps against Cincinnati.
“I mean, you know, you think about it — you see how the game’s going, and you make that decision based on that, for sure. Again, I have a ton of respect and a ton of confidence in Nate Yarnell, and we won’t hesitate.”
Holstein is the starter, and Narduzzi said it will remain that way… until it doesn’t.
I know; it’s very vague.
Holstein wasn’t perfect, but he took a major step in the competition with his performance. He looked like a freshman making his first career start at times, but that’s okay. He was sharp, threw his wide receivers open with excellent poise and anticipation and made good decisions — for the most part.
Yarnell only played a couple of series, completing 4-of-8 pass attempts (50%) for 33 yards and a touchdown in his fourth quarter cameo.
But even when Narduzzi was asked about the balance between being careful and making the right decisions, Narduzzi went out of his way to include both Holstein and Yarnell.
“I’ll let coach Bell — I’ll let him take care of that,” Narduzzi said. “But we got a plan, and we’ll see how that plan works. I feel really good with where we are right now. And just the quarterback’s gotta make good decisions, which is what Eli and Nate do. So, those guys making decisions and getting the ball out of their hand quick.”
Holstein is going to start. And unless he completely falls apart, Yarnell isn’t going to see the field. But it certainly is a big opportunity for Holstein to close the book in the quarterback competition.
Come on, Pat. Enough of this nonsense. This is all coach-speak.
Unless Holstein struggles, he’s the starter. Fine. Are you afraid of Yarnell just plain quitting or something?
Total BS Pat… you knew all along who would start. I knew that when Nate only received mop up duties. If it was a “ neck and neck” competition each QB would have played 1/2 of the game.
Not rooting against Eli.. just sick of Narduzzi’s Bull-a-sh#t!