AJC > Sports > Tech > Blog > Archives > 2008 > September > 26
Friday, September 26, 2008
Jaybo’s Time?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Before I get to today’s topic, I want to let you know I really appreciate all the good comments yesterday. Let’s keep it respectful and insightful on here.
Talking to CPJ after practice Thursday, he was encouraged about all the injured players he expects back at practice Monday: C Dan Voss, LB Kyle Jackson and WR Correy Earls, among others.
But then it came to QB Josh Nesbitt, who is dealing with a strained right hamstring. There’s a good chance he won’t be back Monday.
We all know hamstring injuries are tricky. No one wants Nesbitt to come back too soon, tear the hamstring, and miss a bunch of games. Especially with the way the schedule unfolds (Duke, Gardner-Webb, then the meat of the schedule starting at Clemson Oct. 18).
So we’re looking at the prospect of true freshman Jaybo Shaw getting his first start. I don’t know the percentage on that, but it seems like a real possibility.
What do we know about Shaw?
Well, we know he’s comfortable running the option. He ran it in high school (though not all 4 years) and his mechanics are precise.
CPJ used an interesting term after the 38-7 win over Miss. St., when Shaw came in early due to Nesbitt’s injury and orchestrated the offense. He praised the way Shaw was getting the ball “dealt.” Shaw knows how to wait until the very last moment before pitching, which frees up space for the backs.
We also know Shaw is tough. He’s willing to absorb the big hit, like he did on his 20-yard TD pass to Demaryius Thomas.
(By the way, none of this is meant as a knock on Nesbitt, who also has proven his toughness. Just look at the 28 carries he had against Va. Tech and his desire to make plays when the pocket breaks down).
But here’s what we don’t know about Shaw. Can his 6-foot, 190-pound frame hold up? Will he make a lot of freshman mistakes on the road? (He didn’t play at B.C. or at Va. Tech).
His numbers are impressive: 18 carries, 112 yards (6.2 average), 2 TDs; 6/10 passing for 91 yards and a TD. More important, the offense has looked crisp when he’s in the game.
So, if needed, can Shaw be The Man?
