It's hard to say that one pass out of his 876 career throws is more important than any other, but that may be the case for Blaine Gabbert.
Will one pass keep Blaine Gabbert from entering NFL Draft?
The junior quarterback was practically a one-man team in Missouri’s 27-24 Insight Bowl loss to Iowa. He controlled the game completing 41 of 57 passes. It was a throw late in the fourth quarter that may force Gabbert to return for his senior year.
With under six minutes left in the game, Gabbert dropped back on a drive that could have put the game away for Missouri. When Gabbert’s first read was covered, he pulled the ball down and ran. Then, seeing a player open, he threw a pass that was intercepted and returned for a touchdown.The game was a clear indicator why Gabbert should return for his senior season.
Even though Gabbert attempted so many passes Tuesday night, he pulled the ball down and ran too soon on a couple of occasions. On a few others he held the ball too long and was sacked. The biggest flaw in Gabbert’s game is that he can be slow to go through his reads. When the first option isn’t there, it takes a little too long for Gabbert to find his next option. In the NFL, he won’t have as much time to process a developing play.
It would be wise for Gabbert to return and build on the promise of his sophomore and junior seasons. He has a good rapport with wide receiver T.J. Moe, who is only a sophomore this year. Another year with Moe and tight end Michael Egnew could do wonders for Gabberts pro prospects.
There were plenty of times Gabbert looks like the first-round pick many expect him to be – particularly on a deep touch pass through zone coverage in the third quarter. Throughout the game, Gabbert got to show his plus arm, quick release and sound mechanics.
But it’s that pass in the fourth quarter everyone will remember, even NFL scouts. That’s why Gabbert should return to Missouri and make everyone forget.
See More:
