re: Per Dandy Don....Russel Shep is the Answer

I think a case can be made for Russell Shepard to start at QB. I think you start with his running ability. He will be the most effective QB running the option, QB direct runs, and running for yards when the pocket breaks down. He can keep drives alive, keep the offense on the field with his scrambling ability.

The question is his passing and his knowledge of the playbook. I really believe that he can be a good, accurate passer in the SEC. He doesn't have the cannon arm, and scouts aren't going to love him like JaMarcus Russell. But, you don't need a cannon to be a winner. If he is accurate and smart with the football, he can be a great QB. And what deficiencies he does have as a passer are offset by his playmaking ability running the football when you compare him to other QBs.

Then you have intangibles and leadership. To me, Shepard is a guy that exudes confidence. He is a player that is so high-energy and confident that it can raise the level of play of his teammates. You just anticipate good things to happen when he is playing. And IMO, this is really his biggest strength. Its hard to explain, but its in his attitude, the way he carries himself, the way he talks, the look in his eye. People believe in Russell Shepard.

I'm not saying Shepard should be the starter right now. I have no clue about his knowledge of the playbook, and his ability to pass against SEC defenses. But I wouldn't feel uncomfortable with him leading our offense, and if given the chance, I think he can be a great SEC QB at some point.

My prediction is Shep will have 4 carries for 85 yards and 3 touchdowns in the 1st quarter, and then sit out the rest of the game.