So, in case you LSU fans have been under a rock for the past couple of months, you've had Russell Shepard, one of the top QBs, locked up for a good few months. With that said, the quarterback position might have been the Achilles heel of a very good football team. Shepard brings great speed and excellent vision to the field in Baton Rouge. I think he could turn into the next Vince Young type of player, especially with his excellent scrambling ability. With that said, what type of role do you think LSU should use Shepard in? I think it all comes down to the development of Jordan Jefferson. He looked very solid in the bowl victory over Georgia Tech, and if he continues to progress I think there's no questions ask. Jefferson needs to be the starter [pending he does develop over the spring]. If that is the case, I could see Shepard used in a role similar to that of Tim Tebow's at Florida in 2006, or Terrelle Pryor's at Ohio State in 2007.
We will use him similar to Ryan Perriwho IMO. But I also see Shep used to spread the field with 2 QBs on the field from time to time as a scat back/slot WR. Jefferson will be the starter but Crowton will have some fun with Shep to give him meaningful playing time.
Spring practice will have a lot of bearing on how, and how much, Shep is used. The step up in competition will be huge for him and how he handles it will determine how he's utilized. Will you be attending spring practices Clair?
Sheppard is going to get a chance to compete for the start start at quarterback in the spring. Jefferson ain't that far ahead of him in experience but Lee is and it could turn into a battle. If Sheppard doesn't earn the start, I think he has indicated he'll do what he can to see the field. I expect Les to use him at reserve quarterback and perhaps also in the backfield or the slot.
Sheppard has without question increased his chance to play QB this fall by enrolling early. If he showed up in August with the other freshman, it might not be possible. Will Sheppard be able to learn two positions, QB and WR/slot/whateverback ? I'm sure in he sticks at QB and plays another position to see the field, it will mainly be plays scripted for him similiar to Trindon. Whatever happens, it will be fun to watch him develop. ldskule:
