Comparing Saturday night’s quarterbacks:
Florida’s John Brantley – Miscast in Urban Meyer’s spread offense, the dropback-friendly Brantley has embraced new offensive coordinator Charlie Weis. And there’s a lot there to embrace. Brantley threw of 229 yards in opening win over Florida Atlantic, but had two passes picked off, compared to just one touchdown. But that’s the only pick the senior has thrown.
He was an efficient 12-of-19 against UAB, then threw for 213 yards and two scores in thet win over Tennessee. Brantley likes to throw to his backs. Chris Rainey leads the team in receptions with 11.
Kentucky’s Morgan Newton – The junior is in his first year as the starter, though he started eight games for an injured Mike Hartline as a true freshman in 2009. Newton was off to a bumpy start, throwing three interceptions in just 18 pass attempts in the opening night win over Western Kentucky. He completed just nine of 18 throws in the victory over Central Michigan.
Newton’s numbers improved significantly last week in loss to Louisville. He passed for 255 yards and two touchdowns, without an interception. He has to do a better job of avoiding sacks. Newton has been sacked 12 times in three games.
Related links:
- Newton a bright spot on a dark night for Kentucky
- Newton proves he can run a little, too
- In his junior year, quarterback Newton is unquestionably the man
