Notre Dame Spring Game: Why All Eyes Should Be on Everett Golson

Notre Dame's spring scrimmage features many intriguing storylines. No storyline is bigger than redshirt freshman quarterback Everett Golson. 

Golson is one participant in Notre Dame's four-way quarterback race heading into next season. He will wage war with Tommy Rees, Andrew Hendrix and ballyhooed freshman Gunner Kiel for the right to run Notre Dame's offense.

Rees and Hendrix had their opportunities to win the job last season but failed miserably. Kiel is a totally unknown factor, and Golson is not far behind. 

Irish fans whisper Golson's name in eager anticipation, hoping he can claim the keys to the offense. Here is why he can, and why everyone should have their eyes glued to Golson in Notre Dame's Blue-Gold game.

Tommy Rees Has Reached His Peak

Notre Dame fans have grown impatient with Rees, as they should. Rees is a marginal talent with erratic decision-making skills, and he is not going to get any better. 

Rees is the favorite to be Notre Dame's starting quarterback because of his experience. However, he brings nothing new to the table and will lead Notre Dame to another underwhelming season if he is allowed to start. 

Golson does not have Rees' experience, but he has an absurd amount of upside. His floor is much lower at this point but the sky is the limit. 

Golson's dual-threat abilities lend themselves to Brian Kelly's spread attack. He can stretch the defense with his mobility or heave the ball down the field to Notre Dame's skill players. 

After several mediocre years, Notre Dame fans would rather roll the dice on Golson's upside than sit through another turnover-prone Rees campaign.

Gunner Kiel is Not Ready

Kiel has the physical tools to be a tremendous collegiate quarterback, but he makes Golson look experienced. Kiel is not ready to quarterback the Irish this season.

Golson and Kiel's upsides are similar despite their difference in playing style. However, Golson's redshirt makes him a more attractive option at this point

Golson sat out last season and learned Kelly's offensive scheme. He still needs to improve his leadership and focus, but he will learn that best by playing in real games. 

Kiel should do what Golson did last season: take a redshirt and get his bearings. Until then, Golson should be handed the reins.

Dynamic Dual-threat Ability

Golson was an extremely decorated high school quarterback because of his ability to run or pass. He was a finalist for South Carolina's Mr. Football award and is sixth all-time in touchdown passes.

Kelly's scheme rests on a quarterback's ability to make quick decisions and create for himself, if need be. Golson's decision-making is not excellent yet, but he can create for himself with ease. 

He is an electric athlete with the ability to break containment. His legs put stress on opposing defenses and open up options down the field. 

Notre Dame fans need excitement. Golson provides that.

Watch Golson in Saturday's Blue-Gold scrimmage. He will make you say, "Wow!" at least once.