| 19 January 2012
Based on how he handled the last quarterback competition, Chip Kelly won't annnounce a decision until the last week of August, when game-week preparation begins for Arkansas State.
The competition will add motivation for the entire team and particularly the quarterbacks. They'll want to establish themselves as leaders. They'll get used to performing under pressure. It will add intensity to every workout, practice and drill.
The starter will earn the job over his entire body of work. It won't come down to the Spring Game or one particular fall scrimmage. And Kelly is no respecter of the seniority system. Last time he went with a sophomore who'd never started a game when a steady senior was available. Based on the results, you'd say he made the right choice.
Both players have a world of talent. Both are a great fit for the offense, nimble runners and great throwers. Each one led a successful team in high school that went deep into the playoffs. Mariota is faster but Bennett is a good open-field runner with a good sense of when to keep and when to take off in the pocket.
Bennett has the advantage of a start and four game appearances. He's moved the team and shown flashes of becoming an excellent quarterback at the college level. Mariota, coming off a redshirt, impressed all season in practice. Reports are he's going to be very, very good. Bennett is poised and carries himself extremely well. Mariota was an honor roll student in high school, smart and grounded.
With the passing weeks it should become clear who's ready. It's still early, but the DSH early line is that Bennett wins the job. The extra year of preparation and game experience gives him an edge. Both of them have a very bright future.
