Syracuse football’s backup QB dilemma: Planning for the unexpected

Syracuse is looking for consistency in its quarterback room behind starter Kyle McCord.

As Syracuse football passes the midpoint of its preseason camp, excitement is building around starting quarterback Kyle McCord. Known for his strong arm and ability to connect with key playmakers like Oronde Gadsden and Dan Villari, McCord has the potential to lead a formidable Orange offense. With a skilled ensemble of tight ends, receivers, and backs at his disposal, expectations are high for an all-ACC performance. Yet, the question looms large: what happens if McCord is sidelined?

The Syracuse coaching staff, led by Coach Brown, finds itself grappling with the challenge of a "wide open" backup QB position. Amid this competitive atmosphere, Quarterbacks Coach Nunzio Campanile provided insights into how the group is handling the uncertainty: "I think we've made great strides. I think we're doing a great job of getting a lot of guys work, a lot of guys reps... ball distribution is really good," Coach campanile said. "I think the quarterbacks did a nice job of spreading the ball around, and we were able to see what all those guys could do," highlighting the progress being made.

Among the contenders for the backup role is Carlos Del Rio-Wilson, a redshirt junior who has been with the Orange for the last two seasons after transferring in from the University of Florida. Del Rio-Wilson has shown potential in limited appearances, completing just over half of his pass attempts at SU. His performance, though not stellar, includes a 10-for-13 showing against Colgate in a game that Syracuse dominated easily, highlighting his capability in controlled situations. However, his struggles against ACC opponents—like a difficult outing against Boston College where he went 7-for-17 with four interceptions—have left doubts about his readiness for high-stakes games. Despite these previous challenges, Coach Campanile remains positive about the progress Del Rio-Wilson has made.

Also in the mix are redshirt senior Michael Johnson Jr. and true freshman Jakhari Williams. Johnson Jr., a dynamic transfer from Penn State and Florida Atlantic, has minimal passing experience but offers versatility and a unique perspective having previously played wide receiver. His athleticism and understanding of the game from a receiver's perspective make him an intriguing option. Reflecting on Johnson Jr.'s rapid adaptation to the team's strategies, Coach Campanile feels that he has qualities fit to assume the number two spot.

"Mike, you know, having just stepped into this offense, really impressed with how intelligent he is, really dynamic athlete," Coach Campanile said.

On the other hand, Williams, a high three-star recruit standing at 6'3", shows promise but is likely to be redshirted, preserving his eligibility for future seasons. As preseason camp progresses, notable shifts in the quarterback lineup have signaled a tightening race for the backup role, pressing the coaching staff to make a decision soon. Initially, Del Rio-
Wilson took snaps with the second string during the early days of camp, but this role has since shifted to Michael Johnson Jr.

Johnson Jr. has made notable pass plays in both of the last two practices where he was featured with the second-string offense, showcasing his playmaking
ability whenever given the chance. Despite Del Rio-Wilson's more frequent presence under center during practices, Johnson Jr.'s consistent performances when opportunities arise speak to the real competition between them.

Both quarterbacks are eager to demonstrate their capabilities and secure the backup spot, fueling a healthy rivalry that should elevate their play. Johnson Jr. has also been balancing his time between the quarterback and wide receiver rooms. He still participates with the wide receivers during sprints at practice, highlighting his dual-threat potential.

Meanwhile, Jakhari Williams gets occasional reps during team drills with the third or fourth string personnel, enriching the depth and versatility of the quarterback roster. Both Johnson Jr. and Del Rio-Wilson appreciate the push from having a promising youngster like Williams in the mix, acknowledging that his drive to compete enhances their own efforts. While Williams might not climb the depth chart this year, he could see playing time in blowout situations, offering a glimpse into his potential.

Coach Brown has expressed urgency in narrowing this gap, emphasizing the need to solidify the backup role soon. While none of the backups may match McCord's intensity, talent, and
leadership fully, the aim is to prepare them as much as possible for any scenario. With the season's success hinging on McCord's health, the backup quarterback situation presents a critical but unresolved issue as the Syracuse program hopes to rebound under Coach Brown's leadership.

As Syracuse fans hold their breath and hope for an injury-free season for McCord, the reality is stark—without a clear and capable second option, the team's prospects for a successful rebuild could be in jeopardy. The coming weeks are crucial in determining who among Del Rio-Wilson, Johnson Jr., or Williams can secure the confidence of the coaching staff and possibly hold the key to Syracuse's fortunes should the unthinkable happen to their starting quarterback.