Starting the ‘Mariota vs Winston’ Discussion With Fansided’s Chop Chat

The 2014 College Football season is still a few months away, but there is already a hot button issue when it comes to the best Quarterback in the country. Recently, Matt Hayes from the Sporting News released his list of Sporting News All Americans, and Oregon Ducks signal caller Marcus Mariota was named to the First team. The Second Team QB was Florida State Quarterback Jameis Winston. Let the debate begin!

Dec 30, 2013; San Antonio, TX, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) runs with the ball during the first half against the Texas Longhorns at Alamo Dome. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Our friends over at Chop Chat, Fansided’s Florida State site had a response penned(or typed) by Editor in Chief David Visser who made several key points to attempt to debunk Winston as second tier talent.  He starts by calling Oregon Quarterback Marcus Mariota a “top-tier talent who marshals an explosive Ducks offense. He’ll probably be the biggest obstacle in the way of Winston hoisting the Heisman for the second straight year.” His argument is with why Hayes has him ahead of Winston is because Mariota is a more complete dual threat player. If Mariota was healthy all of last season I doubt there would even be a debate between which Quarterback was better. However, the Oregon Ducks Quarterback now has to prove he is healthy and will have several early opportunities in front of a National Television audience to do just that.

In my mind, Winston is a solid athlete and his arm is his most dangerous asset. Both teams will rank high entering the 2014 season and if they don’t stumble could very well end up meeting in the end, but in watching Mariota in person I would take him every time. I’m sure Mr Vissar would say the same for Winston and that is fair.

The Oregon Ducks start the 2014 season on Saturday, August 30th at home vs South Dakota. Kickoff is set for 7:30pm PT on Pac-12 Networks.

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