I spoke at length with quarterbacks coach Tyson Helton after the spring game, notably about the quarterbacks. He said his brother will ask for his opinion, but the decision to name a starter, and whether that player is Max Browne or Sam Darnold, will ultimately be made by the head coach.
I then asked Helton if he had conviction about choosing one quarterback over the other at this point and he said no, that he would honestly feel good about either guy getting the nod. Darnold's performance this spring has essentially forced the staff to question whether Browne is the best option. Helton said Browne’s command and control of the offense is a big plus and gives the coaches reassurance about him being ready. In the same breath, Helton called Darnold “electrifying” but noted he requires more coaching at this stage.
I then asked Helton if he had conviction about choosing one quarterback over the other at this point and he said no, that he would honestly feel good about either guy getting the nod. Darnold's performance this spring has essentially forced the staff to question whether Browne is the best option. Helton said Browne’s command and control of the offense is a big plus and gives the coaches reassurance about him being ready. In the same breath, Helton called Darnold “electrifying” but noted he requires more coaching at this stage.
