Syracuse football head coach Fran Brown named his starting quarterback yesterday for next season. LSU transfer Rickie Collins will take over Kyle McCord’s QB1 position.
The redshirt sophomore played in three games last year for the Tigers where he completed 5-5 passing attempts for 35 yards. The Baton Rouge, LA native comes to Central New York after an anticipated quarterback opening piqued interest around the country, and has carried over into a spring battle for who would win the starting spot.
Coach Brown wanted to roll with a starter sooner than later, and he’s committed to Collins.
“He’s moving into being the leader of our football team,” said Brown on Collins. “I’m liking what I’m seeing. The players are behind him. It seems like everyone is behind him. He puts the work in daily.”
Collins transferred to Syracuse in December, just in time for SU’s Holiday Bowl appearance in San Diego against Washington State. He shadowed McCord during that stretch.
“During Bowl Game prep, he got a chance to watch Kyle,” said Brown. “Through spring ball, Kyle’s been here so he’s watched meetings with him a few times. We’re really excited. I’m happy for him and happy that the whole team knows who we’re going to get behind and who we’re going to follow.”
While Collins is set to rock the QB1 spot, the backup and third quarterbacks are still up for grabs. Redshirt senior Michael Johnson Jr and redshirt freshman Jakhari Williams are still in a battle for the other spots.
“You better compete to be two. He’s close,” said Brown on Williams. “He’s a very good player. He could be our number two quarterback. But he’s still young. He got to sit behind Kyle once. He dominated on the scout team all year long. Now he gets a chance to truly learn all the intricate little details on the offense. It’ll be good for him.”
Syracuse hosts its Spring Game in the Dome on Saturday at 3:00 P.M.
