When Nebraska takes the field against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Saturday afternoon, there’s the distinct possibility we could see more than one person under center/in the shotgun for the Cornhuskers at quarterback.
During media availability on Wednesday afternoon, offensive coordinator Mark Whipple told the assembled press that if starting quarterback Casey Thompson is unable to play due to his arm injury, the Huskers are considering using both backup Chubba Purdy and Logan Smothers on the field.
Purdy came on in relief of the injured Thompson but had a rough outing against Illinois, going 3/8 for 15 yards with an interception. The Husker OC confirmed that Purdy himself was not 100% and had not practiced the two days leading up to Saturday’s loss.
Purdy and Smothers are two very different quarterbacks, as Purdy as more of a passer with scramble ability, while Smothers is a pure option-style quarterback.
During his time in Lincoln, Purdy is 10/20 for 50 yards and two interceptions. He joined Nebraska this season after having spent the previous two years at Florida State. Smothers joined the Cornhuskers in 2021 and even has one start under his belt, a 28-21 loss to Iowa to close out the 2021 season.
Depending on which quarterback takes the field Saturday, it’s clear that there could be two very different-looking offenses the Golden Gophers will need to be prepared for. Whipple has always been known as a pass-first play caller, but with the possibility of Smothers also taking the field, it’s clear we could see some spread option that would add extra depth to that side of the ball.
Below is a photo gallery of the college football careers of both Chubba Purdy and Logan Smothers. Nebraska takes the field this Saturday at Memorial Stadium against the Minnesota Golden gophers. Kick-off is scheduled for 11 AM.
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Florida State Seminoles quarterback Chubba Purdy (12) looks to pass. The Florida State…
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