Clemson Tigers: Tucker Israel making noise in QB battle?
The biggest storyline surrounding the Clemson Tigers this offseason is their quarterback competition. While it may seem like a three-man race between Kelly Bryant, Zerrick Cooper and Hunter Johnson, the coaches have repeatedly mentioned redshirt sophomore Tucker Israel.
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Israel hails from Lake Nona high school in Orlando, Florida. Coming out of high school, Israel was one of the most decorated quarterback’s in the history of the sunshine state, throwing for nearly 11,000 yards and 120 touchdowns over his career. Israel also led the state of Florida in passing from 2011-2013.
In an interview with Tigernet following Clemson’s fourth spring practice, co-offensive coordinator Tony Elliott commented on Israel’s progress, “I’m so excited in Tucker (Israel). Tucker’s much improved from the fall.”
It is important to note that Israel has been running with the twos for most of the spring. Does not have the physical gifts that the other quarterbacks on the roster do, however, he has a high football IQ and good anticipation.
Following the first scrimmage of the spring, Tony Elliot spoke with
saying the following of Israel, “Tucker (Israel) is a guy from a mental standpoint, he knows the system as well as anybody, and he has to continue to take advantage of his opportunities when they present themselves.”
I don’t think people should count Israel out just yet, while he has yet to play on the college level, he was undoubtedly the most productive of the quarterbacks in high school. Israel is cut from the Nick Schuessler cloth in that he has to rely more on his knowledge of the system and accuracy to make throws.
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At the moment Kelly Bryant looks like he will be the starter come next fall. That being said, I think that Israel will be much more competitive in the Clemson Tigers quarterback race than people are expecting.