Steve Clarkson

Blog by Quarterback Coach Steve Clarkson. My take on sports, football, life and of course ...successful quarterbacking. Visit SteveClarksonDreammaker.com

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Clarkson Is #TEAMADIDAS

QUARTERBACK GURU STEVE CLARKSON & ADIDAS FOOTBALL PARTNER TO ADVANCE

QUARTERBACK TRAINING AND TECHNOLOGY

New Collaboration Set to Help Aspiring Quarterbacks Reach Their Optimal Performance

 PASADENA, Calif., August 14, 2015. Steve Clarkson Dreammaker LLC. and adidas Football today announced a multi-year national partnership designed specifically to enhance quarterback training and technology to further develop aspiring quarterback talent. The partnership will focus on differentiation through both product and training to advance athletes’ performance. The program will include technology advancement in coaching technique, performance training, wearable product technology, and key event activation, both on and off the field. The partnership with Clarkson marks the first ever Private Quarterback-Coach focused partnership for a global sports brand.

 Renowned Quarterback Coach Steve Clarkson is no stranger to quarterback building and discovery, most notably featured on CBS 60 Minutes for developing young quarterbacks David Sills and Tate Martell, who received Division 1 college scholarships at the ages of 13 and 14 respectively. In April, Clarkson was designated by the Los Angeles Daily News as one of the “Top 50 Most Powerful People in Sports in all of Los Angeles”, (the only QB coach to receive the designation.) (Hyperlink).

 The new Partnership will also integrate adidas Football into 8 quarterback specific national event activations, (Pasadena, CA, Austin TX, San Diego CA, Atlanta GA, San Francisco, CA, Seattle WA, Santa Monica, CA, and Philadelphia, PA), where quarterbacks will receive top-tier training on the field using the most advanced adidas Football training tools and technology. Off the field, athletes will have unparalleled access to quarterback focused training technology, including the world’s first Virtual Reality Steve Clarkson Quarterback Experience, designed to enhance cognitive off-field skills and techniques, developed by Eon Sports.

“The game of football has advanced and evolved, and so have the training tools, technology, design and style,” said Steve Clarkson, “The innovation and energy behind the new adidas team gets me excited. It gets our Quarterback excited, (and they are the true Trendsetters). We look forward to being a part of the new aggressive direction of adidas Football.”

 The partnership will also integrate into Clarkson Trendsetters Worldwide platform, founded in 2014, a highly selective multimedia platform designed to provide quarterbacks with the exposure, accessibility and knowledge-base necessary to succeed at the highest levels of athletic participation. The Trendsetting QB’s will be the very first to use and test the newest and future adidas technology innovations- the same access to technology designed for the world’s most elite NFL and college athletes.

 “We’re excited to be partnering with Steve and his quarterbacks for the collaboration and design of products for the quarterback of the future,” said Mark Daniels, VP of adidas US team sports. “We already have some game-changing concepts to help QB performance and speed in development and this new partnership continues to build on the vision for adidas Football.”

 For more information on Steve Clarkson Dreammaker please visit: http://www.steveclarksondreammaker.com

 About Steve Clarkson: Steve Clarkson is considered the nation's preeminent coach of

quarterbacks, having had great success as a private coach and tutor for some of the finest quarterbacks at the professional, college and high school levels. Clarkson has coached more than 200 Division I-A quarterback starters and 40 + NFL quarterbacks. Clarkson's tremendous track record at tutoring QB's has not gone unnoticed, as his work has been featured in an array of mainstream sports media outlets and publications such as CBS 60 Minutes, ESPN and The New Yorker.

 About adidas: adidas develops high-performance and lightweight footwear, apparel and accessories for some of the greatest athletes and teams including more than 100 collegiate programs such as Arizona State, Indiana, Louisville, Miami, Mississippi State, Nebraska, North Carolina State, Texas A&M, UCLA and NFL stars DeMarco Murray of the Philadelphia Eagles, Jimmy Graham of the Seattle Seahawks, Von Miller of the Denver Broncos, Frank Gore of the Indianapolis Colts, Sammy Watkins and Mario Williams of the Buffalo Bills, Eric Berry of the Kansas City Chief

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My Week #3 Top NFL Quarterbacks

After three weeks of the NFL season my top five quarterback rankings have had a major shift.  It's important to note my rankings are based solely on this past weekends play, and there are no carry overs.  

Russell Wilson for the last two seasons has shown us all that he is the new normal when it comes to playing the quarterback position.  Russell is undefeated against Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, and Tom Brady.  

Phillip Rivers, continues to carve his way through the leagues' best defenses, and is a leading candidate for NFL's Player of the year.

Andy Dalton has the Cincinnati Bengals playing at a level we haven't seen since the days of Ken Anderson.  The combination of Dalton and AJ Green could very well be the best in the game right now!  

Nick Foles with the Philadelphia Eagles (I wrote a blog earlier on the genius of Chip Kelly and specifically his systems' ability to make the quarterback play better than he is.  In Nick's case, he challenging me on this notion!  

Drew Stanton...Since taking over for Carson Palmer all Drew has done is lead the Arizona Cardinals to two victories and now the team over all is 3-0.  Which poses a legitimate question.  Who is their quarterback when Carson Palmer gets heathy?

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FIGHT ON! The Spirit Of Troy.

From my point of view this past week was a bit rough for the men of Troy.  Going back two weekends ago…The bazaar sight of USC's Athletic Director talking to game officials on the sideline following an unsportsmanlike penalty by new Head Coach Steve Sarkisian. 

Then just when you thought USC was on the verge of a truly historic season, they got steam rolled by the “Red Bandana Brigade!”  AKA Boston College. 

 Let’s go back to Pat Haden on the field, yes I agree it was different to see him in that situation talking to game officials while the game was in progress.  I thought it was great theatre and let me be first to add I'd be willing to personally build Pat his own zip line from his suite to the sideline…just so I can see it again. 

 My problem though is much bigger than that.  I wish Pat Haden and the University itself would have taken the fight to the NCAA for the hypocrites they are.  I'm not upset with the NCAA for reversing a bad ruling when it came to the punishment of Penn State.  Even though the NCAA had no business getting involved in a local and state criminal matter in the first place.  However, when it comes to USC they continue to think its ok to punish the innocent.  Where is the leadership? 

How can USC be told they should erase their memory of quite arguably the greatest run in college football history?!  What kind of message do we to take from the most recent rulings handed down by the future deposed NCAA? 

 So it’s ok for University of North Carolina’s Assistant Coach to funnel players to his agent, and have the Head Football Coaches Assistant write papers for your student athletes?!

Or

Ohio State University…With no problem for the players to sell their game jerseys for tattoos and cash!!!

Oh, and University of Miami?? Guilty for all of the above and more!  Then you go back to USC…and still you think the punishment is justified?!  Really?!  Give me break!

 Let me break this down for you.  USC…feel free to use OJ Simpson in your solute to Troy videos.  Also, feel free to display his jersey, and acknowledge his winning a Heisman while attending your University.

But when it comes to the greatest 3 year run in college football history...well that's a problem! Why I ask??  Because a so-called player who can no longer be affiliated with your program had an agreement with someone (not even connected to the school) or at that time not paying the NCAA a cut?  Please, give me a break.

 So, apparently only the “unthinkable acts” are ok to be associated with?  This makes perfect sense! HA! 

This is were I need Pat Haden to step in and say…”I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it anymore!”  Pat should demand the NCAA to restore USC's National Championships, and have the NCAA acknowledge they were too punitive in their rulings against the University. Even if they refuse…USC should recognize its accomplishments during this time frame, because we all have eyes, and we all witnessed it first hand! 

 Finally, nothing…and I do mean NOTHING can tell me that USC should erase the memory of the greatest 3 years of College Football, and yes I did say THE greatest football player!  Period!

 So the next time you go to the coliseum to watch your men of Troy.  Feel free to protest at the conclusion of the Spirit of Troy.  Everyone should all stand on their feet and chant...Reggie! Reggie! Reggie!  Pat, if the NCAA has a problem with that?  Tell them I said it was ok!

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My Week #2 Top NFL Quarterbacks

Peyton Manning...Well again Peyton seems to be primed to hold on this top spot for a while, as he continues to dominate the regular season.

Phillip Rivers has simply been amazing after two games, and the San Diego Chargers could easily be 2-0 if not for the defense in week one against the Arizona Cardinals.  

Aaron Rodgers was at his best after falling behind the resurgent New York Jets .  The speed and accuracy of Rodgers mid range passing is second to none!  

Jay Cutler has never been given proper credit for being an NFL iron man, but after taking a horrific shot against the 49ers, AND still stay in the game?!  Not to mention his leadership under duress was a sight for my throwback eyes.

Nick Foles is quickly becoming this decades' Dan Fouts with his ability to spread the ball accurately to a variety of receivers.

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Jerry Freaking Neuheisel

From my perspective.  This weekend has left me shaking my head.  First, the good.  Talk about happy endings.  "Jerry Freaking Neuheisel!!"  

#11 was born for this very moment.  "I'm so pumped, and excited to watch this all unfold," said head coach Jim Mora, who showed America exactly what your supposed to do when life gives you lemons.  This is not the first time Coach Mora has displayed such great leadership.

Remember last year while playing at Nebraska just after the death of Nate Pasquale, UCLA got off to a very slow start.  Then at halftime Mora reminded his team how best to honor their fallen teammates' memory with a fiery speech.  UCLA went on to blow Nebraska away.

Then...this Saturday happened.  UCLA's unquestioned leader goes down, and when it seemed UCLA's season was headed down the drain as only Jim Mora could do...he delivers again!  Jerry Freaking Neuheisel is going to win the game!  Are you kidding me??  (That is what Mora told a FOX sideline reporter on a live television broadcast.)  Apparently not!  UCLA wins 20-17 to the Texas Longhorns.  

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Friday Night Lights In Southern California

Some of my thoughts about Friday under the lights in Southern California.  

1) Just how good is Mater Dei?  Last week they simply boat raced Corona Centennial, who last night almost beat Bishop Gorman (number one team in the country according to USA TODAY)

2)  Long Beach Poly may be the most difficult team to beat in the new PAC 5 Division, now that they finally have a college caliber quarterback, Josh Love who is a 6'2 215 pound senior.  If you are a college looking for a great prospect, hear he is!

3)  Speaking of quarterbacks...Jack Lowary of Mater Dei High School reminds me a great deal of Matt Cassel former USC QB now playing like a PRO BOWLER with the Minnesota Vikings.

4)  Loyola HS playing a night game on their campus is an..."Its ABOUT TIME!!!..moment.

5)  Head coach Casey Clausen is on his way to being named Coach Of The Year.  People are now starting to fear a program that...before he got there had just won probably 2 games in a Decade!  They're off to a 3-0 start with a rising STAR quarterback, Tristan Gebbia Class of 2017.

6)  Thousand Oaks Highschool quarterback Max Gilliam, Class Of 2016 is a name to remember!  Thousand Oaks is now 3-0 and he's a large part of that.

7)  If you're a fan of Hart Highschool's QB Brady White...Then you'll love his younger brother Brevin White, freshmen quarterback at Mission Hills Alemany HS.

8)  Lastly...Tate Martell of Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas.  You remember him?  The 8th grader who Steve Sarkisian (the new Head Coach at USC offered while at University Of Washington)  If you haven't seen him play, then go to the kitchen and get the popcorn out and GOOGLE this Human Highlight...Enough said!

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My Week #1 Top 5 NFL Quarterbacks

 Peyton Manning: He seems to own this spot week after week and this week is no different.  At the age of 38 he still seems to be evolving…it seems he reinvents himself with quicker decisions making it almost impossible to get to him before the ball is gone. 

Ben Roethelisberger: With his week one performance against Cleveland brought back memories…He reminded us all how gifted and physically challenging he is to defend.  Which was very evident on the final game winning drive!

Russell Wilson: To actually think that some thought he was just a game manager?!  However, that couldn't be further from the truth.  His ability to throw from the pocket and extend plays outside of it, make him one the best in the game today.

Matt Ryan: Is this the year that he finally is mentioned amoung the NFL's elite quarterbacks?  Well, if his game against the New Orleans Saints is any indicator then the answer is a resounding yes!  He finally showed why the Atlanta Falcons rewarded “Matty Ice” with that fat contract. 

This may surprise many, but making my TOP 5 this week is Matt Cassel of the Minnesota Vikings.  Going back to the pre-season in which he had to compete with first round pick Teddy Brigewater, Matt Cassel has been the most consistent player in the league and in my opinion when given playmakers to work with he had proven to be a solid starting quarterback.  I think he has a very good shot at making the Pro Bowl this year.

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Trendsetter For This NFL Season: Chip Kelly

Looking into my crystal ball...

I forecast that this years' most interesting man WILL NOT be "Johnny Football", but the NFL'S newest genius.  This trendsetter is none other than Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly.

 Every decade has brought a unique innovator, responsible for some of the greatest coaching trees the NFL has ever seen; Vince Lombardi, Paul Brown, Bill Walsh, and Bill Parcells are most credited for how championship teams are built, until now.

Chip Kelly I believe has the chance to take the game to a place no one ever thought imaginable.  It was just a few years ago while at the University of Oregon that his quarterbacks led an offense only seen on EA SPORTS VIDEO GAMES.  The big question, however was will it ever work in the NFL?  Most believed no!  Simply because the quarterbacks would get killed with the simplistic blocking schemes used to run Chip Kelly's system.  The thing most people who watched from a far assumed was that it was based on the the quarterback having to expose himself.  This was assumed because of unnecessary hits, due to various zone read packages, and the extremely fast pace in which they play.  

The truth is that the quarterback rarely runs, and the system is built largely with the the ability to set up the pass.  This would be set up by a very effective running game designed to lure more defenders in the box.  Once this happens and you start playing more single high coverages, they know what your going to do before you do.  This is a huge advantage not just for coach Kelly, but any play caller.

The biggest  concern with Chips' offense is the number of plays ran in practice and in games.  The stress it would leave on older players with less numbers to work with.  After all, in college you could have as many as 104 players to get thru practice, with the average age of 19 years old.  In the NFL your working with a 53 man roster with a average age of 29 (just an estimated guess).  

The key to the Philadelphia Eagles this year will be Chip's ability to create miss matches with timely substitutions, and always staying one step ahead of the defense.  To truly be successful at running this scheme...positive yardage on first down is the key.  This means 4 yards or more.  By doing this, it puts defensive coordinators in a huge bind.

(For example...When to employ or not to employ Nickel and Dime packages.  Whatever the defensive scheme, Chip has a counter for it!  If your caught with a dime package on a rushable down your now having defensive backs playing in the box against running formations i.e. "fish out of water!")

The biggest reason I believe Chip Kelly will succeed will be his ability with his offensive schematic to take ordinary quarterbacks and have them play better than most experts ever thought they were capable of.  Even with all of Chips offensive innovations, the thing he will have the biggest impact will be on the defensive side of the ball. Now that Chip Kelly's offense are being imitated he better than anyone knows what it takes to make his offense slow down,and that's a huge advantage! 

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Week #1 Top 10 College Team Line-up

Every week I'll post my top ten college football teams based on that week's play only.  My top ten will not have a roll over effect!  In other words it would be entirely possible for my number one team from the week before not even to make my top ten the following week.  Even if my number one team at the time was victorious that particular weekend.  Stay tuned throughout the season!

1. Georgia

2. Texas A&M

3. Florida State

4. USC

5. Alabama

6.Oregon

7. Stanford

8. Baylor

9. Michigan State

10. UCLA 

Come back next week!  Any input?  Feel free to tweet us!

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My Takeaways Of Saturday's SoCal Football: USC & UCLA

USC

In one word…Wow!  I loved their sure dominance in how they handled all the distractions of this week.  They pretty much dismantled Fresno State…I know, after all it was Fresno State we're talking about, but opening games are usually the easiest to struggle with.  Just ask Alabama, Florida State and UCLA!

Game Poppers:

The biggest thing about USC that jumped out at me was their team speed!  As only Robert Dinero would say…”This team has great Ju Ju!”  AKA…Ju Ju Smith, one of a handful of true freshmen who have tons of speed to burn.  The speed on this SC team was evident everywhere!  Cody Kessler was simply brilliant in his new coaches’ offense, and showed great ability getting the ball off quickly and accurately to 9 different receivers.  

 UCLA: 

I know it's only one game, and some may be concerned about what they witnessed Saturday playing against University of Virginia.  I want to tell you all to pump your breaks on the panic button!  This is the first year in my lifetime of 53 years that UCLA has come into a football season with so much hype and expectation. 

Bad: 

The obvious bad news is a very ugly win…and I'm being kind with that!  My biggest concern for this UCLA team is a lack of real speed at the WR position.  Also, the fact that your QB Brett Hundley remains your best and leading rusher?!  

The Bright Side: 

I'm going to give UCLA a pass on this one, and so should the supporters/hater, this is why. 

For about 4 weeks now they've been hearing on ESPN and other media platforms how they are the best team in college football, and how they now own the city of Los Angeles.   

Jim Mora is exactly what the doctor ordered for UCLA. This will be a great teaching aid for the coach to get after his troops for expecting just to show up and have their opponents roll over.

UCLA’s defense was outstanding, and adding 3 touchdowns to the board!  Myles Jack is a lock for the Butkus award, and if he continues to play like this they may have to change the name of this award to...The Jack 'N' the Box Award.  Yeah, I know that was a cheap plug!

A few things to consider for which this game was played. 

A: UCLA played a game at 9am!  PST!  

B: They had to travel across the country and play on the road in extreme humid conditions, which usually takes days to get used to. 

C:  On the other side Virginia was really prepared and certainly was tired of hearing how they were just road kill on the way to Dallas. 

D: There is a whole season ahead of you to turn things around...

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Meet Mater Dei Highschool's Quarterback Jack Lowary

Jack Lowary or Captain Jack as we all call him around here.  Captain Jack has always impressed me with his larger than life persona.  The highly charismatic quarterback will have a major impact on the Mater Dei's football program this year.  Jack reminds me of a cross between Matt Leinart and Carson Palmer.  Jack may be one of the Nation's best kept secrets...but trust me he won't be for long!  As his quarterback coach, I can't wait for him to show everyone what I have seen for years!

Back in May at our San Diego Quarterback Retreat, Greg Biggins-National Recruiting Analyst for FOX Sports/Scout.com was able to sit down and meet with Southern California's powerhouse Mater Dei Highschool's upcoming QB 1 Jack Lowary.  See below for full article breakdown:

Very few programs anywhere in the country have the track record of

producing next level quarterbacks like Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei.

Jack Lowary will be the guy for the Monarchs next season and he has

all the physical tools to play at the next level as well.

Jack Lowary was one of several talented quarterbacks who attended the

Steve Clarkson QB Retreat in San Diego over the weekend. Physically,

Lowary has everything you’re looking for in a college quarterback and

just needs game experience.

He’s a big, strong 6-4, 230 pound kid with a huge arm and the ability

to make all the throws. He’s a pocket passer but has some mobility and

can throw on the run with plenty of velocity and accuracy.

“I’ve been working out with Steve since the 5th grade and it’s always

fun to come out and get together like this,” Lowary said over the

weekend. It’s a time to catch up with some of the guys and talk to

Wilton (Speight) and Max (Wittek) and learn from them.

“The Retreat is more about family and having fun. We put in a lot hard

work on Sunday’s training with Steve but this is more about having a

good time with the other guys. Steve has been great for me though and

I’ve learned a ton.

“He has really helped me with my foundation and not using my arm so

much. Now we’re just fine tuning some things, using my base and lower

half more so it’s not just all arm.”

As a junior, Lowary played a backup role to Chase Forrest who signed

with California. He’ll be the guy as a senior and said he can’t wait.

-Greg Biggins

Some Jack Lowary HIghlights:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxqUNjBYWQg

Since the retreat in May Jack had been working hard and preparing the best he can.  We were able to catch up with him and get some final words on his upcoming senior season.

"What I'm looking most forward to is the opportunity to finally play and be at the helm of the offense.  It's such a honor to be the starting quarterback at a great high school like Mater Dei.  Mater Dei's  quarterback legacy is 2nd to none.  I'm very excited to be able to show everyone what I can do and I have great teammates and a coaching staff to support me." -Jack Lowary

GOOD LUCK CAPT!

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Ducks All In A Row for Travis Waller

(Travis Waller and the Downtown Los Angeles City Scape)

To begin this piece I would like to go back to where it all started…Just another example of a parent (his mother Bridgette) wanting the best for her quarterback.

 “The search to prepare my son to compete with other top QB’s brought us to the group training program led by Steve Clarkson.  As I sat and observed I noticed that there was about 8-10 QB’s out there that appeared to either be headed to the next level or had already secured a QB position in college. My son had a challenging task to rise up and compete with these guys. As the weeks passed his confidence and willingness to learn brought him the results he needed to compete. Between the on field workouts and classroom sessions he is now aligned with some of the other top QB’s. There’s still more work to be done and he looks forward to it. The entire program is run professionally with a sincere focus to transform all the players who attend. I was impressed that all players were treated the same and that many of them created new friendships. Though they have tremendous and tedious workouts the players all walk off the field like they had a good time.” – Bridgette Waller (October 2013)

(Travis and his mother)

The first time I met Travis Waller I was amazed how a kid so new to the quarterback position could already be so dominant.  Travis currently plays at Servite High School, which happens to have an SEC type schedule for their level.  Travis was always the best player on the field.

In a very short time Travis made himself a national top-flight recruit with his ability to show how accurate he was in the pocket, and even more his dangerous ability of extending plays outside of it.  A lot of times in my business evaluators are always looking for comparisons instead of believing that he might just be what others will some day be compared to.  Travis is the very definition of what it truly means to carry the moniker of Trendsetter.

One of the things I value most when it comes to evaluating a quarterback is the player’s work ethic.  I've been training quarterbacks for 30 years, and rarely have seen a player with Travis's desire to be the best.  Each Sunday my program offers training sessions year round.  Every session, even during the season he was relentless in his pursuit to being greatness.  At the same time he became a role model for my young aspiring quarterbacks.

 “It is very difficult to attend every Sunday training session because I have to wake up very early.  Which means I have to go to sleep on Saturday night at 10:30 or so.  What teenager goes to sleep at 10:30pm on Saturday night?  I believe this is what separates me from a lot of people.  I dedicate everything towards training.  Sometimes in life to get where you want to be, you have to give up some things.”

- Travis Waller 

From my experience, to be a successful quarterback you must have the unique ability to balance the personalities in the huddle, and the expectations of those who aren't.  You must be able to demand respect by your play on the field and be willing to take the blame when others don't quite measure up.  Travis has that special gift.  He has the ability with his simple approach of looking at each game as an opportunity to conquer impossible odds.  Southern California's, Servite HS was an underdog in most games during the 2013 season.  However, the mere presence of number eleven made the opposition less optimistic about their chances for victory.  Travis has that special thing they call the “it factor”.  You get the feeling that there's nothing Travis couldn't do, and that's what makes him so special, because there really isn’t.

When it came down to where Travis should play his college days the choice was simple.  Right from the beginning Travis saw himself as an Oregon Duck.  Their offense was well.....Trendsetting!   So it was only fitting that the two would eventually come together, and today on July 1st, 2014 Travis decided that the (school that NIKE built was the perfect place to showcase his off the chart skills set.)  Oregon!!!...

 For all you Ducks….You may possibly  in fact be losing Marcus Mariota to the NFL DRAFT, but you got yourself a new LEADING MAN!!  Yes, Oregon you've lined the Ducks up in a row just perfectly!

(Proud Coach!)

 Greg Biggins- National Recruiting Analyst for FOX Sports/Scout.com comments on Travis and his offer to Oregon.

"Waller would be an ideal fit in Oregon's offense. He's a mobile quarterback who can run around and make plays but he has the pocket presence and arm talent to make plays with his arm as well. Oregon's offense has always worked best with a quarterback who can stretch a defense as a running threat combined with being able to make throws down the field.

Waller can do both, he's a very good athlete and can run like a deer but has made huge strides as a pure passer and can make all the throws on the field.  He's a natural leader, very likeable and should be able to attract plenty of talent to play with him at Oregon."

I had the chance to ask UCLA's quarterback Brett Hundley his own thoughts on Waller...

"I had a chance to get to know him at the the Steve Clarkson Quarterback Retreat this year, and he is a natural born leader.  The first thing I noticed was that the other QB's gravitated towards him.  He is an amazing passer who just so happens to be a great athlete.  Which is a major plus in today's game!  Travis is a defensive coordinators worst nightmare!"

-UCLA's QB Brett Hundley

(Travis being coached up by Brett Hundley, May 2014)

I am very excited to see how this #trendsetter's journey unfolds, and I am certain it will be too bright for anyone NOT to notice.

The "O" is going to be very happy!

(Travis with his mother Bridgette and brother Austin, and his new Oregon Family)

Check out Travis's Trendsetter page and his 2013 highlights!  

http://steveclarksondreammaker.com/trendsetter/travis-waller

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One on One with Wilton Speight at Steve Clarkson Quarterback Retreat

Each year we are lucky to have our college quarterbacks attend our Quarterback Retreat as college counselors. What works perfectly is that they are able to give the younger players their insight on the game, and being at the next level. We also welcome Greg Biggins-National Recruiting Analyst for FOX Sports/Scout.com who was able to sit down with the following gridiron #trendsetters.

Wilton Speight:

Michigan quarterback Wilton Speight has been a regular at the Steve Clarkson QB Retreat three years running now and two weeks ago, the big signal caller took part but this time as a camp counselor.

It has been an amazing transformation watching Wilton Speight over the last few years. From a player who barely looked like a legitimate Div I prospect three years ago to a player now playing for one of the nation’s premier programs, it has definitely been fun watching Speight grow as a quarterback and a person.

“I always have a ton of fun being out here,” Speight said while in San Diego. “The last two years, I had a lot of fun competing with the other quarterbacks and this year was fun being a camp counselor and working with some of the younger kids out here.

“It’s a great experience and a fun environment. Steve (Clarkson) has been great for me and has helped me a lot. He really developed me as a quarterback and a player and I’ll always be grateful for that.”

Speight graduated early from high school and was able to take part in spring ball at Michigan.

“Spring ball was awesome,” Speight said. When I got there, I hit the ground running and tried to prove myself to the older guys in the locker room. I wanted to show them I was ready to compete and win and it was a great experience.

“There was an adjustment because I was only there for a few days when I found out Coach Borges was getting fired. I was obviously disappointed since he was the one who recruited me and I had a great relationship with him. Once I heard Coach Nuss (Nussmeier) was coming in though, I was very excited and it has been great learning from him.”

Speight said he had already developed a relationship with Coach Nussmeier prior to signing with Michigan.

“Nuss is a great guy, really intense and a perfectionist,” Speight said. “Anything less than perfection is considered a failure and that’s our mindset right now as a team. He brings a fast pace, high tempo system and I’ve learned a lot from him already.

“I had talked to him while he was at Bama and I knew what a great coach he was. He’s a great fit in our program and we’re all very excited to have the opportunity to play for him.”

Speight said the receiver corp is loaded and will definitely surprise some people.

“Devin Funchess is unreal and makes 2-3 catches every practice that make your jaw drop,” Speight said. “Amara Darboh is a beast and he’s 100% now and ready to go. Then we have two young guys that came in with me, Drake Harris and Freddy Canteen, and they’re going to be special.

“Drake is my roommate and is a great guy. Unforunately, he hurt his hammy and also got Mono so he missed some time. Freddy is a freak and is going to shock everyone. We called him Freddy ‘Footwork’ because his feet are so fast. He loves to work, we worked out a lot after spring practice and he’s just an unreal talent.”

As for his role, Speight said he won’t be content just being a backup, he’s looking to compete.

“Devin (Gardner) is the No. 1 guy and if we had to play a game tomorrow, he would be our starter,” Speight said. “He’s a great person and has helped me a ton. I watch him as much as I can and try and learn as much as I can.

“I’m always taking mental notes and reps and want to keep getting better. This fall camp is going to be big for all of us and I’m going in with the mindset that I want to win the starting job. Nuss did a good job of getting all of us reps during the spring and I’m happy where I’m at right now and ready to go.”

[steveclarkson-blog]

Throw King Crimson...Throw...

Disclaimer: Now before you read this blog, let’s make it clear that I am an AJ McCarron fan.  I think he is poised beyond his years and if you need proof, just check my tweets.

 This is a huge weekend for the “quarterback position” for this years’ upcoming NFL draft.  It’s the time of the year when the top college QB prospects will get grilled and prodded like a Bone-in Rib-Eye.  Yes!  You guessed it…The NFL Combine. 

For a few it's a time to build your case on why a team should select you.  Others will be left to pick up the pieces on what was once a promising career.  For some of these prospects the wheels were wobbly even before getting to this point.  Example: AJ McCarron of Alabama, who I love coming out of their bowl game.  Only to not participate in the Senior Bowl, and to follow that up by NOT participating in the throwing drills at the combine, this I just don’t understand.  AJ's biggest asset is his LEADERSHIP qualities! Furthermore, his very impressive resume, which includes two National Titles (which could have easily been three), and a possible Heisman Trophy (had it not been for a freak field goal return for a touchdown). 

Up until this point AJ McCarron has done everything right……However, by not playing in the Senior Bowl AJ missed the chance to show just how valuable he could be to a team.  Especially those looking for a potential franchise quarterback in the likes of Tom Brady, Peyton Manning or Joe Montana.  By doing so he went against what he has always done best, and that is to COMPETE! 

Again, I want to be very clear…I've always been a huge fan of AJ and I've taken plenty of heat for doing so.  I just don’t agree with this approach when he has so much to gain and not nearly as much to lose.  What is the down side?  That your arm wasn't the strongest in draft?  No secret, we all know that.  But we also know that there is no other quarterback who was better prepared to seize the moment, like AJ, the Quarterback that played for Americas most demanding Coach (Nick Saban) and Fan Base (Alabama).

 Furthermore, to make things more frustrating you have decided to PASS at the NFL Combine, where the throws are very simplistic and not as challenging as most people think.  So by skipping the Senior Bowl AND the throwing portion of the combine you are taking the all or nothing approach, (just throwing at Pro Day) which could lead to the biggest upset of your career.

 AJ, you are a true competitor and champion.  But you know better than anyone what can happen when you put all yours eggs in one play!  #GoingForTheFieldGoal instead of playing safe for overtime!  You Remember...  

 Good Luck AJ!!!  Hope you have a Rabbits Foot!  If not I’ll put one in the mail.

Roll Tide! 

[steveclarkson-blog]

Some NFL QB's Being Underpaid???

Interesting topic for debate brought to you by Jason La Confora of CBS: 

http://mweb.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/jason-la-canfora/24438540/face-it-nfl-quarterbacks-are-underpaid-and-salary-cap-is-way-too-low which suggests that NFL quarterbacks are greatly underpaid compared to other sports stars and entertainers.  For years I've always felt that the NFL has missed the boat by not protecting and compensating their most valuable asset.  

Finally, someone else agrees with my way of thinking...  

The top tier quarterbacks should be exempt from the salary cap, which has gone in reverse since 2009.  Even though at the same time individual NFL Team profits have gone up!  Did you know that the NFL just set a world record for views on a "single telecast" with more than................One-Hundred- and-Eighteen- MILLION viewers who tuned for the #SuperBowl48.  Yes, Peyton Manning was awful but he WAS, and will continue TO BE box office!  This was accomplished by Peyton playing his entire career in a small market!  

Due to the all salary cap restrictions...the NFL's richest team owner, Paul Allen has had the luxury of owning a Porsche while only having to pay for the price of a Volkswagen!  What a deal?  Or steal?  

Let's face it...Eddie Murphy hasn't made a good flick since "Coming to America," yet he still gets 20 MILLION a film!  

"Ba,ba,ba,ba,ba,ba, BOOM!  Help!  Eddie!  Aunt Bunny fell down the Steps!"

[steveclarkson-blog]

Great Read On The Mind Set of Quarterback Russell Wilson

All quarterbacks should take note for their off season…This guy right here…Russell Wilson

http://mmqb.si.com/2014/02/04/russell-wilson-seattle-seahawks-super-bowl-xlviii/

He talks about his drive to be “better than yesterday & better tomorrow than today.” I think the biggest asset to Russell Wilson’s game is his ability to HANDLE THE MOMENT. He doesn’t ever look at what WAS or what WILL be, just what IS and the importance of being the most efficient player on the field every single down! As a quarterback coach, one of the first things I look for in a QB is his ability to create a NEGATIVE into a POSITIVE.

Russell Wilson continues to impress me with his ability to come up with big timely plays when needed the most. There have been times this past season where Russell has not had a great game statistically, but when needed most has made a key throw or run to keep drives alive. Which then led to game winning moments. Maybe the most impressive thing about his game has been his ability to avoid the big hits and remain heathy. Today’s game is very challenging for the style in which Russell plays so that’s a huge accomplishment! Just ask RGIII!

[steveclarkson-blog]

Braves On The War Path

      Over the course of fourteen weeks we have all watched as the #WashingtonRedskins, a once proud franchise dissolve right before our very eyes.  It seemed like not too long ago that Joe Gibbs was the chief architect (no pun intended) of one of NFL's most stabled franchises!  Well, that was then and this is now…

      The glory days of this must see team of the ages have been replaced by the daily soap opera known as All My Children.  The once highly respected #WashingtonRedskins are at a major crossroads, and that's putting it mildly!  Washington’s head coach Mike Shanahan, who may I add has not one, but TWO Super Bowl championships under his belt, has been second guessed.  The “second guessing” has been done by many people for his handling of the Redskins, and in particular #RG3.  This has always been debatable, but there's no debate where the majority of the blame lies!  Daniel Snyder must be held accountable for all the bad Karma and what ever negative result comes of this union.

      With this being said, this is a correctable situation.  First, we must truly understand how it got this point.  Let's go back to the very beginning.

A.  Dan Snyder needed to hire a coach who had credibility and proven track record for building a team that could compete year in and out. Someone who had the cache, which would attract Free Agents, and more importantly a coach who had a reputation for developing #quarterbacks!  Bingo!  This was accomplished by the hiring of Mike Shanahan.

B.  Draft a franchise #Quarterback to be the face of the franchise for years to come.  The #Redskins accomplished this by selecting Robert Griffin III.  Robert was a hot commodity and was just awarded #TheHeismanTrophy, which is college football’s highest honor.  #RG3 was a very rare combination of top end speed, a deadly accurate arm with the charm and charisma.  This combo was the perfect recipe of what could make your franchise one of NFL'S hottest tickets.

C.  Dan Snyder needed Mike Shanahan to know that he "Dan Snyder" wanted to have a hands on approach when it came to running his ball club, which brings us to the problem.  There's no way that Mike would have accepted this job under those circumstances.  Dan needed someone who was clearly just happy to be employed and would've been more receptive to his philosophy, but of course that didn't happen.

      So what do you do now?  For the #Redskins and most notably Daniel Snyder, he must, as the owner meet with Mike and give him assurances that this is Mike’s team to run as he's sees fit.  Now here is where you can save face… 

1.  Extend Mike’s contract as a token of good faith. 

2.  Ask him to work this offseason with #RG3 to make him the franchise player you both thought he was when you drafted him.  Then ask Mike to give #RG3 a year to prove himself.  If he doesn't work out then the franchise will need to move in another direction as far as the #quarterback position goes. 

3.  Bring #RG3 in your office with Mike at your side and inform him that they will trade #KirkCousins so that he can truly develop as a #quarterback without looking over his shoulder.  The biggest thing is that you make sure Robert understands that he must get off his #RG3 Island, build a better relationship with Mike, and put himself back in the locker room with his teammates.  It must be very clear that #RG3 MUST play well and LEAD this franchise back to box office status or he won't be here! 

4.  Schedule a press conference with Mike and #RG3 at your side and make a public apology for putting everyone in this situation…including the fans who have supported this organization for the past couple of years.  Vow that this will never happen again! 

5.  Also you need to come to grips that times have changed and with that so must the team name, which has been symbol or your ball club from the very beginning.  By doing so could give the team the good JuJu that it so desperately needs! 

      Right about now your asking yourself, “Why in the world would I do this?”  It's simple, look at the alternatives…If you fire Shanahan then… #RG3 is the biggest loser because he'll lose the support of the locker room, which you need to succeed as a #quarterback.  You will also lose, because you'll never get a more qualified head coach again and the fans will stop supporting your hobby!  Finally, Mike loses because he'll be remembered as the coach who quit on his team, and was not equipped to handle the modern day player!

     So by extending Mike, trading Kirk and recommitting to the long-term stability of your franchise.  You will be enabling the rehabilitation of your once Pro Bowl caliber #FieldGeneral #RG3, and you'll put you and your franchise in a win, win, Win situation!!! 

 Ps. I do have a suggestion for the new team name!  The Tribe!  The helmet logo would go back to the spear, which is part of your past!  Instead of what currently offends many!  Forward progress…forward motion only leads to success! 

Good Luck Chief!