Texas A&M vs. Arkansas: Is Tyler Wilson Legit or Just a Big Numbers Guy?

After five games into the 2011 season, Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson has compiled 1,517 yards, thrown 10 TDs and only has three picks.

That being said, the first ranked team he went up against this season was the Alabama Crimson Tide that held him to just 185 yards, though he did have two TD passes and the pick was off a tipped pass.

Still, is Wilson just a numbers guy, or is he a legit QB?

It's not easy filling the shoes of Ryan Mallett, but even before this season it was a foregone conclusion that Wilson was going to start 2011 with Mallett gone.

All that said, here are three reasons why Wilson is a legit QB.

Experience

The picture is from his redshirt freshman year, where he appeared in two games (Alabama, Texas) and went 11-of-22 for 69 yards, and had one TD with two picks.

For that being his freshman year, it's not a bad effort especially against Alabama and Texas.

The following year in 2009, Wilson appeared in four games (Missouri State, Alabama, Texas A&M, Eastern Michigan) and was 22-of-36 for 218 yards, and threw two TDs with two picks.

Once again, not a bad showing for having limited playing time, but 2010 would prove to be vehemently better.

He appeared in six games and was 32-of-51 for 445 yards, and had four TDs (all came in one game though) to three picks.

This season Wilson has hit the ground running, and it's clear his previous experience has been beneficial.

Strength

It's hard to mimic the arm strength that Ryan Mallett had, but Tyler Wilson's isn't bad either.

Let's face it, you don't throw for over 500 yards in one game and not do it by dumping off check-downs and tossing screen passes.

Also, last season when he threw four TDs against Auburn he compiled 332 yards against the eventual national champions.

Add the fact that Arkansas averages almost 40 points per game this season, while only gaining 132 yards per game on the ground, Wilson's right arm is the key.

Plus, when you're attempting an average of 34 passes per game, you don't stay effective without having a strong arm.

Toughness

The two games that stick out in measuring Wilson's toughness came from this season.

The first was against Alabama where he was knocked around all game long, but still stood in the pocket and ended up throwing two TDs.

Against Texas A&M it was much of the same, except the Aggies pass defense is nowhere near the level of Alabama's.

It appeared that Wilson was under duress every time he dropped back, but he led Arkansas to a 42-38 win after being down 35-17 at halftime.

Be very aware, Tyler Wilson is a legit QB, but another year in the college ranks will surely make him ready for the NFL.

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