Panning for QB2 Gold

Friday’s practice was all about the key backups and position battles, with second squad decisions looming this week. It will be interesting to see who wins QB2 behind Crist, between Freshman Tommy Rees and Junior Nate Montana. Following Friday’s practice, Kelly highlighted the contrast between Rees’ natural fit in the spread offense and Montana’s arm strength and athleticism. Kelly’s decision here could be seen as an early insight into the value system and long term focus of the new regime. Does Kelly believe Montana will ever be leading his offense? Give Crist two games or two years – either way, you’re left with a shorter runway with Montana, hoping you can mold a more mature guy into an offense that might not come as naturally. A short runway and imperfect fit is what you’ve already got at QB1. While it may be better to bury Rees for now, there is also the matter of sending a message to the team and ND Nation. This offense is about discipline, precision, timing, and perfection. If all of these come more naturally to Rees and all other traits such as work ethic and competitive drive are equal, then pan what you’ve been preaching is gold and prove to the team that we’re all taking the same thing to the bank.