LSU Football: Debunking the Biggest Concerns over Zach Mettenberger at QB

Despite limited playing time at an elite level, Zach Mettenberger's strengths and weaknesses are well documented.

Because of LSU's struggles at quarterback in the past four years, much weight has been placed on Mettenberger's shoulders, and he's been the hot topic all offseason for LSU fans. Furthermore, many have picked his game apart before he's even stepped out on the field.

Everyone knows he has a cannon, which is thought to be his biggest strength. But what's his biggest weakness? Many would say it would be his inexperience and lack of mobility, yet that's a testament to his strengths.

Serving as a counselor at the 2012 Manning Passing Academy and taking part in the "Air It Out" portion of it, Mettenberger put the ball on a dime to his receivers and dazzled spectators with his long ball. But none can deny that he lacks valuable playing time against elite SEC defenses.

Last season, Mettenberger gained yards through the air or on the ground in just two games, Northwestern State and Ole Miss. But while that may warrant some cause for concern, fans should look at previous championship-winning quarterbacks as a good sign.

After all, Alabama defeated LSU in the 2012 BCS National Championship with first-year starter A.J. McCarron. Some might say it was because they had a great rushing game and outstanding defense. Well, LSU's rushing attack and defense should be just as good, if not better, than last year's Alabama team.

Seriously, all of the pieces are there for the Tigers to win a national championship, with the quarterback position being the only question mark. And if you go back to 2010, Cam Newton was a first-year starter who led Auburn to the national championship. He, like Mettenberger, made his mark in junior college before taking the SEC and the nation by storm.

Could Mettenberger follow in his footsteps? Considering the Tigers went 13-0 before losing to Alabama with Jarrett Lee and Jordan Jefferson calling the shots, the Tigers should be just fine with a true deep threat under center in 2012.

As for the mobility issues, that could serve as a problem. But then again, most likely it won't. Mettenberger's primary job is to take care of the football and provide the Tigers with that deep threat that I mentioned earlier. No more Jordan Jefferson options to the weak side. 

The Tigers will continue to ground and pound their opponents, and with a veteran offensive line, they should provide holes for the running backs and plenty of time for Mettenberger to throw the ball.

The truth is you never know how good a quarterback will be until he's under pressure against SEC competition. But considering mobility and inexperience is Mettenberger's biggest weaknesses heading into the season, well, that's exciting for Tigers fans.