Looking Past Malik: N’Kosi Perry or Jarren Williams?

Following the Canes’ Spring Game this off-season, Mark Richt clarified that Malik Rosier will (most likely) be the starter for the season opening game against LSU. This choice was a reasonable one, as this game isn’t ideal for breaking in a new quarterback. However, a cloud of concern rests over the position group, as Rosier was his usual self in the Spring Game.

Looking (way) ahead, it’s a safe bet to assume that the quarterback battle next year, will be between N’Kosi Perry or Jarren Williams. In the past, we’ve seen talented quarterbacks such as Jack Allison transfer out of the program due to losing the battle; would the same happen to Jarren/N’Kosi? Say that Williams beats out Perry next year, why wouldn’t Perry transfer out to find playing time? He definitely seems capable of leading a team, despite lacking in experience.

N’Kosi Perry and Jarren Williams are similar style quarterbacks, but not the same. Both have strong arms, but Perry is more athletic, while Williams is more accurate and prototypical for the position. There are clear reasons why each could be exactly what Richt’s scheme needs.

In the Canes’ Spring Game, Perry posted 166 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Williams posted 107 yards and a touchdown. Both made impressive throws, and showcased the developments they made. One area that Perry holds the advantage though, is rushing; as he ran for 45 yards. If the quarterback battle for the 2019 and beyond took place this year instead, Perry would most likely be chosen as the starter, as his mechanics, and football IQ, are more developed at current than Jarren’s.

I predict that N’Kosi Perry will be Malik’s successor, but Jarren Williams will make it a close battle. Does this mean that Williams will transfer due to missing out on playing time? Possibly; and as football fans, we know that anything is possible. However, based off of their Spring productivity, N’Kosi seems just about ready to lead a team. Even more-so than Rosier, debatably.

This upcoming season, Canes fans shouldn’t be surprised by some N’Kosi Perry action, but Malik Rosier still remains the starter. However, if Malik struggles once again like he did down the stretch in 2017, and puts us in positions to lose games, one can only hope Richt makes an adjustment. Last year, Evan Shirreffs whom transferred to Charlotte, temporarily replaced Rosier in the regular season finale (or debacle) at Pitt. We, as fans, should expect the same to happen if similar performances arise.