The most important player in football is the guy taking snaps under center. The second most important? Well it could become the backup quarterback if the starter lands the wrong way. After Chance Amie declared his intent to transfer, there’s been uncertainty about who will be second in line, in case DeVito goes down. So, with those words of encouragement, who is being overlooked that could be incredibly important for the Orange next season?
Clayton Welch – Senior
Welch was listed as DeVito’s backup on the spring-game depth chart. Welch has appeared in just one game for Syracuse after transferring from Butte College. He led the Roadrunners to a 9-3 record after redshirting his freshman season. Welch threw for over 1,000 yards to go along with 13 touchdowns. He also showed off his legs to the tune of 821 yards and 11 more trips to paydirt. While Welch is unproven at SU, he has the size and frame for a quarterback. He stands at 6-foot-5 and 248 pounds. For comparison Cam Newton is 6-foot-5, 245 pounds. Mr. Welch is an absolute load to bring down.
Rex Culpepper – Junior
Culpepper has been a source of inspiration for his Syracuse squad and fanbase after conquering cancer. Last season he suited up as a tight end, but he could find himself back under center in dire circumstances. Hopefully SU doesn’t endure a rash of injuries at the quarterback position, but it’s always nice to have extra guys who can step in and start. And Culpepper has been in four games for Syracuse. So… that’s more than any other backup on this roster can say.
David Summers – Freshman
Summers was a late commit to Syracuse, after the Orange flipped the Connecticut native away from Maryland. After Amie decided to transfer, SU had an opening to work with. But Summers is expected to redshirt next season. According to ESPN, Summers ranks as the Orange’s third best recruit, and the sixth best recruit out of Connecticut. Apparently Summers and DeVito are very close and even train together, which could have been a factor in his commitment.
