Clemson football starting quarterback, Kelly Bryant went down with an ankle injury in yesterday’s win over Wake Forest. With Hunter Johnson outplaying Zerrick Cooper in relief of Bryant, will there be movement on the Tigers’ depth chart?
Kelly Bryant has led Clemson to a 6-0 start. While he isn’t the best passer in the world, he makes timely throws in big moments. The junior quarterback’s legs have sparked a rushing attack not yet seen before under Dabo Swinney.
Zerrick Cooper has been listed as Clemson’s No. 2 quarterback since the start of the season, with freshman, Hunter Johnson at No. 3. Given their lack of in-game reps, there was no reason to make any changes to the pecking order. Following the their win over Wake Forest, Clemson’s coaches may need to considered altering the depth chart.
Zerrick Cooper
Cooper entered the game immediately following Bryant’s injury. The rocket arm that the coaches discussed during fall camp was on display. Unfortunately, Cooper was throwing every ball with the same velocity. He missed multiple throws, finishing the day 2-of-6 for 16 yards, including a bad miss to a wide open Deon Cain.
Hunter Johnson
Johnson caught fire against Wake Forest. The freshman gunslinger played to perfection, completing all five of his passing attempts for 42 yards and one touchdown. He guided this Tigers offense down the field with ease.
Who should be No. 2?
It’s not clear whether or not Bryant will be available for Clemson’s upcoming matchup with Syracuse. According to The State, Bryant’s ankle will be reevaluated this afternoon. Regardless if he is healthy or not, Cooper and Johnson are going to play against the Orange.
Clemson has enough talent across the board to defeat Syracuse with any of the three. The backup quarterback discussion is more relevant to the remainder of the Tigers’ schedule. With matchups against NC State and Florida State coming down the pike, Clemson must find a viable option should Bryant go down again.
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At the moment Johnson seems like the best option, however, I wouldn’t be so quick to declare him the backup. Clemson should give both Cooper and Johnson extended reps versus Syracuse, before reevaluating their depth chart. If Johnson outperforms Cooper for the second straight week, then a change needs to be made.