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Sports and Competition
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Sports and Competition
Source : (remove) : Fresno Bee
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Fresno State QB competition coming to a close, but here are 3 pressing questions

Fresno State QB Competition Coming into Focus as Fall Camp Progresses

As the Fresno State Bulldogs gear up for the upcoming college football season, the spotlight is firmly on the quarterback position, where a heated competition is unfolding. With the departure of last year's starter and the influx of new talent, head coach Jeff Tedford and his staff are meticulously evaluating their options during fall camp. This battle not only shapes the team's offensive identity but also carries significant implications for the Bulldogs' aspirations in the Mountain West Conference.

At the heart of the competition is Mikey Keene, the incumbent who transferred from UCF and took over as starter midway through the 2022 season. Keene's experience gives him a leg up; he threw for over 2,900 yards and 24 touchdowns last year, showcasing poise under pressure and a quick release that fits Tedford's pro-style offense. However, his performance wasn't without flaws—interceptions in key games highlighted areas for improvement, such as decision-making in the red zone. Tedford has praised Keene's growth, noting in recent practices how he's become more vocal as a leader, mentoring younger players and demonstrating a deeper understanding of the playbook. "Mikey has the tools and the experience," Tedford said during a media session. "He's been consistent, but consistency wins games, and we're pushing everyone to elevate."

Challenging Keene is a mix of promising underclassmen and transfers, each bringing unique skills to the table. Logan Fife, a redshirt junior who has been with the program since 2020, represents the homegrown option. Fife saw limited action last season, stepping in during spot duty and even starting a couple of games when injuries hit. His familiarity with the system is a major asset; he's known for his mobility and ability to extend plays with his legs, adding a dual-threat element that Keene lacks. In fall camp drills, Fife has impressed with his arm strength on deep balls, connecting on several long throws that have drawn cheers from teammates. However, questions linger about his accuracy in tight windows, an area where he's been working diligently with quarterbacks coach Kirby Moore.

Adding intrigue to the mix is Jaylen Henderson, a transfer from Texas A&M who joined the Bulldogs in the offseason. Henderson brings SEC pedigree, having been a highly recruited prospect out of high school. Though he didn't see much playing time with the Aggies, his raw talent is evident—standing at 6-foot-3 with a cannon for an arm, he's capable of making all the throws required in Tedford's scheme. Fall camp has been a proving ground for Henderson, where he's shown flashes of brilliance in 7-on-7 sessions, including a perfectly placed fade route for a touchdown. Yet, adapting to a new system has its challenges; Henderson has admitted to occasional mental lapses, such as misreading coverages, which the coaching staff is addressing through film study and extra reps. "Jaylen's ceiling is sky-high," Tedford commented. "He's learning fast, but we need to see that translate to game-like situations."

Beyond these frontrunners, the depth chart includes intriguing dark horses like redshirt freshman Joshua Wood and true freshman Malachi Riley. Wood, who redshirted last year, has bulked up and shown improved velocity on his passes, making him a potential wildcard if the competition drags on. Riley, a local product from nearby Clovis High, embodies the high-upside recruit with his athleticism and quick decision-making, though his inexperience means he's likely a year away from serious contention. The coaching staff has rotated all quarterbacks evenly in practices, ensuring each gets first-team reps to simulate real-game pressure.

The quarterback derby isn't just about individual stats; it's intertwined with the Bulldogs' overall offensive strategy. Fresno State returns a solid receiving corps, including All-Mountain West wideout Jalen Moreno-Cropper, who could thrive with a consistent signal-caller. The running game, led by Jordan Mims, provides balance, but the QB's ability to manage the tempo and avoid turnovers will be crucial against a tough non-conference slate that includes matchups against Purdue and Arizona State. Tedford, a veteran coach with a history of developing quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Trent Dilfer, emphasizes a holistic evaluation. "We're looking at everything—accuracy, leadership, how they handle adversity," he explained. "This isn't decided yet; it's an ongoing process."

Fall camp observations reveal a competitive yet supportive atmosphere among the quarterbacks. Keene has taken Fife and Henderson under his wing, sharing insights from his UCF days, while group film sessions foster camaraderie. Injuries have played a role too; a minor tweak to Fife's ankle early in camp briefly sidelined him, allowing Henderson more reps and intensifying the battle. As practices ramp up toward the season opener on August 31 against Purdue, the staff plans to name a starter by the end of next week, though Tedford hasn't ruled out a two-QB system if no clear winner emerges.

This competition echoes Fresno State's recent history of quarterback turnover, from Jake Haener's successful stint to the revolving door post-2021. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic, with Keene favored in early predictions, but the Bulldogs' success hinges on whoever wins the job delivering in high-stakes moments. The Mountain West is wide open this year, with Boise State and San Diego State as top contenders, making a reliable QB essential for Fresno State to contend for the title.

Looking ahead, the winner will face immediate tests. The Purdue game on the road will demand poise against a Big Ten defense, while conference play kicks off against Nevada, a team that exposed Fresno State's secondary last season. Whichever quarterback emerges, they'll inherit a program with momentum—last year's 10-4 record and New Mexico Bowl win set a high bar. Tedford's track record suggests he'll make the right call, but the unfolding drama in fall camp keeps everyone guessing.

In broader context, this QB battle reflects trends in college football, where the transfer portal has democratized talent distribution. Players like Keene and Henderson exemplify how mobility between programs can accelerate development, but it also heightens competition within teams. For Fresno State, a Group of Five powerhouse, nailing the QB position could propel them toward national relevance, perhaps even a New Year's Six bowl berth if everything clicks.

As camp progresses, all eyes remain on the signal-callers. The Bulldogs' faithful are eager for resolution, but the process underscores the depth and potential at the position. Whoever steps up will define not just the offense, but the season's narrative for Fresno State football. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Fresno Bee Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/fresno-state-qb-competition-coming-195342598.html ]