Does the fact that most D1 schools run spread offenses hurt rookie quarterbacks that get to the NFL?

Question

Since most NFL teams run pro style offenses? Is that one reason why Matt Leinart and Alex Smith cannot succeed?

Answer 1

QB's who run gimmick offenses in college don't succeed in the NFL. The NFL style of play needs dropback passers who can throw out of the pocket. I still can't believe the 49ers made Smith the first pick in the draft.

Answer 2

I don't know that the spread is much of an issue.  In my mind, its' the fact that they seldom learn to read defenses - it's mostly reaction at the college level.

Smith and Leinart are victims of playing for poor teams.  They were drafted to losers who have no defense and that are doing nothing to improve.

Answer 3

Most D1 schools do not run the spread.  Only now is it gaining popularity at the top-tier schools (Michigan, WVU, Texas, Mizzou).  Up until recently the spread was run primarily by non-BCS conference teams mainly the MAC and WAC, and they're QBs were better off because of it (Rothlesburger).  The problem is not the spread, but the crazy passing stats that come with it that can make a QB look like a stud, when in actuality, its not that hard to throw 25 TDs when your team throws a bomb at least once a drive.  That's why Colt Brennan didn't go in the first round.  

Answer 4

It looks like that way. And Tim Tebow might be another bust

Answer 5

Probably.