Good quote from MFBATR on the QB situation:
linkAny quarterback we've got can go start anywhere," Alabama running back Trent Richardson said. "AJ, Phillip Sims, Blake Sims or whoever. They can go do it and I believe in them. Then you have to make everyone else believe in them, too.
Talent will not be the issue at QB over the coming years. It will be who displays the maturity to execute the plan while "taking what the defense gives him" as CNS would say. It is a position position that demands a leader above all else.
The idea of a game manager seems tarnished somewhat as people associate it with being simply serviceable, but to me it defines the key quality necessary to have success. Strong armed, gunslingers make great highlight reels but they are a gamble in the long run, and, like most games of chance, the house usually wins in the long run. I believe in taking shots when you have them, but sticking to the plan and making the best play available (again...take what the D gives you).
The margin for error in CFB today is to thin to not play the odds if you want to have consistent success. One thing for sure is that CNS is going to play those odds in spite of the talent on the field or who is sitting in the OC seat. That doesn't mean he is against a more explosive offense, it simply means that he will play the individual who gives them the best chance for consistent success, which is not always the one who may guarantee an ESPN top 10 play each Saturday.
Whoever comes out of this spring and summer most prepared to be that type of on-field leader (game manager) will be the one taking the most snaps.
Personally, I think we will see a great deal of both AJ and P. Sims this year while B. Sims may be set to become a permanent fixture from the wildcat formation.