ASU Football: Why Sophomore QB Taylor Kelly Got ‘The Nod’

Kelly, a 6-1, 203-pound native of Eagle, Idaho, was selected for the QB job over teammates Michael Eubank and Mike Bercovici. This was a very difficult decision for the ASU coaching staff, and one that likely came down to the following factors:

Since Spring practice, it has been apparent that Kelly offers the best blend of passing accuracy, running ability, and team leadership skills.

Kelly has proven to be sound game manager. He has a good handle on the ASU offense, and has demonstrated a workman-like skill at running the team.

Kelly makes good decisions. All through practice, he has been the QB least prone to cheap turnovers.

The intangible: Kelly REALLY wanted to be a Sun Devil! As a youngster growing up in the Boise, Idaho, area, he idolized Jake Plummer and followed “the Snake” during his career at ASU. Kelly past up a chance to play for pass-happy Nevada Reno to accept a scholarship at Arizona State.

All in all, Coach Todd Graham made a wise choice in giving Taylor Kelly the nod for the season opener.