Committing to a team that featured Tajh Boyd meant Cole Stoudt’s first-team chances have been few and far between over the past three season. However, with Boyd now a member of the New York Jets, it could be time for the senior to prove his worth.
A three-star recruit out of Dublin Coffman High School in Dublin, Ohio, Stoudt is no stranger to the field despite being a three-year back-up. His 119 career passing attempts have resulted in 742 yards and eight touchdowns.
Standing 6’4” tall, Stoudt is a pro-style quarterback with good mobility to work within Dabo Swinney’s system. Deshaun Watson, a five-star recruit and the highest-ranked dual-threat quarterback in the 2014 class, is of the same mould as Boyd and was favorite to take the starting job. Nevertheless, the position belongs to Stoudt and his victory over Watson will be a major boost to not only the player but any nervous fans who were so accustomed to security and winning.
Clemson have a very strong football program and a regular flow of quality players are coming through the door. Sadly, high-profile wide receivers Sammy Watkins and Martavis Bryant have moved on, as has tackle/guard Brandon Thomas. Those are three core pieces to Clemson’s 40.2 points-per-game 2013 offense gone in the blink of an eye.
Stoudt has shown in the limited action we have seen him in that he can play good football. But can he play to a similar level of Boyd, with a weaker supporting cast for 12 games?
Unfortunately, with the sudden arrival of Jameis Winston coupled with Florida State’s recruitment program, the ACC goes through the Seminoles. With both sides in the ACC-Atlantic, only one or the other can make the Conference game and there are tall odds on that being Clemson.
One element working in Stoudt’s favor is the defense supporting him. Defensive end Vic Beasley returns for his senior year and will be one of the best pass rushers in the ACC, if not the nation. Furthermore, high-profile cornerback Mackensie Alexander will make his debut alongside impressive sophomore safety Jayron Kearse while 86-tackle senior Stephone Anthony also returns to the fold.
I think you can sense what I am leading up to here. No, Cole Stoudt is far from good enough to beat the ‘Noles, especially in their own back garden. However, the Tigers have a very talented coaching staff and group of players that can beat almost anybody on their day. Stoudt must be controlled and nurtured into victories, almost protected. Yet, he is good enough to manage games and produce a little bit of magic if need be. But, in the ACC, that can quickly run out in the blink of an eye.
Follow Richard on Twitter @Richard_Gatenby