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Steve Spurrier praising Connor Shaw, sees NFL potential

Is Connor Shaw good enough to play at the next level? Steve Spurrier thinks he has a chance.

Wesley Hitt

Steve Spurrier had some kind words for Connor Shaw on Tuesday, saying he believes Shaw has a shot at playing in the NFL. That's high praise indeed from a coach who in the past hasn't been quick to compliment his signal callers.

Shaw is flying under the radar in a league with the likes of Johnny Manziel, Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger, but he is quietly putting together an outstanding season. He ranks third among SEC quarterbacks in passer rating, and he has yet to throw an interception.

Spurrier doesn’t ask him to do a lot — Shaw averages about 21 attempts per game — which keeps his yardage total down. He is averaging 9.2 yards per attempt, though, which is exceptional, and his completion percentage ranks among the SEC’s best.

As for his NFL prospects, it looks like he has some work to do. NFL.com analyst Daniel Jeremiah called him a “possible late-round draft pick” after watching his performance in South Carolina’s season-opener. He’s ranked 18th among draft-eligible quarterbacks by NFL Draft Scout, while SB Nation’s draft gurus did not have him ranked among the top 29 draft-eligible QBs in their latest assessment.

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