There have been QB’s at Boise State who could carry an offense. They adjust their throws so that ANYBODY can catch them. QB’s who adjust a negative play at the line of scrimmage into a positive one. They direct traffic to young WR’s and RB’s lining up and verbally remind them of what they need to do. Move in the pocket away from pressure and find a little time to get the ball to an open receiver. And, when warranted, challenge the other 10 guys to dip deep and punish the defense. Some coaches call it
LEADERSHIP.
I think of Ryan Dinwiddie and Kellen Moore first.
Brett Rypien is a work in progress. This spring scrimmage was the perfect stage to see if he can carry an entire offense. He was protected by the 2nd string offensive line, green WR’s, a RB who had just received a scholarship and a game plan revolving around a TE who went down with an injury in the 1st quarter.
He was all alone basically.
Rypien responded with an 18-31 throwing performance, an interception and no touchdowns. Each catch went for just about 8 ½ yards. Ryp had almost 15 yards per catch last season. With limited time to throw the ball, he looked to get rid of it earlier. Receivers needed to be sharp and on alert for the ball. They were at times. Other times, they were not “on the same page”. Sometimes, in order for others to “be on the same page” with the QB, the QB has to know his job so well that he can take pre snap time and ENERGY to help others. He has to have confidence in his own ability to make an even faster read before the snap because he is busy helping others do their jobs. If Ryp is so focused on doing his job, and he seems like a laser focused kid, and needs all his time and energy to do that, he may not be ready to help others as much. And, he isn’t ready to carry a team. No crime in that because it is rare when that occurs. Ryp, and this team, needs Mattison, Wilson , the #1 o line and a healthy Roh. They can be really good.
I think the leadership part of Ryp’s game is under construction. I am sure he has heard that from Coach Harsin and Zak Hill. He needs to spend less time by himself re focusing and more time encouraging his teammates. More time on the field in the summer with his receiving corps and less time isolated in the film room. Probably more summer BBQ’s, hanging out or playing video games with his o line. He needs to trust himself that he is more than ready and will handle the situations when they come up. Others need more of his direction and his energy. Maybe he needs to be loose and more specifically, LET IT RYP!
