Tommy Rees May Not Be Long-Term Answer at QB for Notre Dame

Notre Dame’s 2011 season has taken a turn for the positive as of late. The offense led by Tommy Rees, Cierre Wood and Michael Floyd has been sensational. As seen against Purdue, the defense isn’t far behind. While fans may debate the “what if” scenarios if the Irish had beaten USF or Michigan, the program seems headed in the right direction.

So what about 2012, 2013 and beyond?

One of the biggest questions about the future of Notre Dame football is actually at the quarterback position. While sophomore Tommy Rees is expected to run the offense for the next two seasons, freshman Everett Golson might be the better long-term answer.

Golson is an extremely athletic dual-threat quarterback from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He was an all-state selection in both football and basketball including finishing his career sixth all-time in the country in career touchdown passes with 151.

Golson was very productive in the Irish spring game, leading the contest in rushing with 62 yards. He also completed 9 of 18 passes for 91 yards and a touchdown.

While Tommy Rees has been solid thus far for Notre Dame, his turnovers have been a problem (six interceptions, three fumbles). Also apparent to any fan is his lack of athleticism. While a solid player, Rees in no way can match Golson’s ability to run the football. Golson seems like the missing piece on what should continue to be an explosive offense in the future.

Recent college football championship history supports this theory. Championship game teams at Texas with Vince Young (2005) and Colt McCoy (2009), and Tim Tebow at Florida (2006, 2008) prove that a multi dimensional quarterback makes a team tougher to stop.

Under the tutelage of Brian Kelly, Golson could become the difference between the Irish becoming a solid BCS bowl contender and becoming a national championship contender. Kelly did great things with Cincinnati backup Zach Collaros during his time with the Bearcats.

While Golson has more athleticism and upside than Rees, as long as Notre Dame continues to win such a dilemma won't be an issue.  Rees is the safe choice, but in the coming seasons Golson's upside could be too much to ignore.

Keep an eye on Golson going forward in 2011 and beyond.