Last spring when QB Zevi Eckhaus transferred to WSU from Bryant University, he came to compete with John Mateer for the starting job. Many believed Eckhaus was the favorite then, but in August it was announced Mateer would start the season.
This spring, the situation looked far more clear for Eckaus. With Mateer now at Oklahoma and Eckhaus looking impressive in the Holiday Bowl last December, it felt like the starting QB gig was all but a lock heading into the summer.
Not so fast, said new head coach Jimmy Rogers after the spring showcase last weekend.
“The job isn’t just straight up Zevi’s. That’s part of this,” Rogers said. “There’s gonna be competition and there’s gonna be more competition coming in this summer.”
Rogers did not recruit Eckhaus and may not be as committed to him as the previous staff. Still, it comes as a surprise for fans to hear that there is a potential for another starter at Wazzu next year. The other option is likely redshirt sophomore Jaxon Potter.
“I think Potter’s taking huge jumps,” Rogers said. “I’ve been impressed with Potter.”
For his part, Eckhaus has stayed humble and has focused on being the leader of the offense. He said after the spring showcase the offense would be more versatile next year.
“You’re going to expect some greedy runs and then when you think it’s going to be a run, here comes the pass,” Eckhaus said. “So just expect a little bit of everything. Keep you on your toes a little bit.”
Last month in an interview with Cougfan.com, offensive coordinator Danny Freund gave some insight into what he looks at when evaluating quarterbacks.
“Ball security is big: valuing the football, understanding situational football and when to take a shot down the field vs. when to take a check down underneath,” Freund said.
He praised all of WSU’s quarterbacks for knowing how to take care of the football.
Chances are Eckhaus will wind up as the week one starter for WSU. He is a senior with three years of starting experience and knows the team as well as anyone. He has also been consistently getting the first team reps at practice. However, the idea the door is not closed on Potter taking the reins is a new development for the Cougs and could indicate the sophomore has more in the tank than what he has shown so far.
