For this week, we tackle the subject of Stephen Garcia. Enjoy this “Great Debate.”
General:
After four games Stephen Garcia is 52 of 95 (54.7%) for 684 yards with 3 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. 4 of those interceptions came last week against Vanderbilt and have prompted calls for Garcia to be pulled in favor of Connor Shaw.
Stephen Garcia remains the best option USC has at quarterback, and he will continue to improve. Despite last week’s turnovers, Stephen is improving. His passing yards have steadily improved from 110 to 142 to 204 to 228. If the trend continues he should throw for about 260 this week. Those are the kind of numbers we want out of a quarterback.
Garcia showed for most of last year he is capable of taking care of the ball and playing well. He hasn’t regained that form yet, but there’s no reason to think he won’t. Thus far USC has had the luxury of being able to absorb his miscues, and he will make many people look silly when he hits his stride. So give him a little longer, and you’ll be pleased with the results.
Moose:
The problem with Garcia is he is inconsistant, which puts doubt in the mind of Coach Spurrier and the fans. One week he can come in to the game and lead the Gamecocks to a comeback victory, the next week he can throw 4 interceptions and be the reason the Gamecocks have to comeback to win.
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If Garcia doesn’t improve greatly over the next 2 weeks, I don’t think it would hurt to give Connor Shaw a chance to show what he can do. Auburn and Kentucky are winnable games, and being at home should help. I think it would be nice to see a football game that didn’t come down to USC’s defense having to make incredible plays just to keep the Gamecocks from losing.
Flounder:
Stephen Garcia is the man for USC. He and only he can lead this team to BCS Glory. With all due respect to Connor Shaw, as he is the future of USC football but key word is future. This season, the man is Garcia. All he needs is one good game to get the confidence back. He is proven talent whether you love him or hate him. The reality is he presents the best chance for USC to reach new heights. The reason is experience in SEC play and the team responds better to Garcia. Stephen Garcia has the backing of the entire team and that is the reason Spurrier has not jerked that chain as he knows that a mis-management of the situation can cause locker room issues. No need to upset the apple cart when you are 4-0. Everyone needs to stop being a ‘arm chair QB’ and trust Spurrier. He knows that Garcia’s confidence will come back and when it does you will see that Spurrier smirk.
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So what are your thoughts on Garcia? Post in the comments or on our Facebook page – HERE.
