I Believe In EJ Manuel

Yesterday, following a 69-3 win by Florida State, several FSU fans seemed rather upset. Judging by some of their comments you would think we had lost the game. Sure it was just Murray State, but let's take a step back for a second. Most of these negative comments involved quaterback EJ Manuel. All of those nasty comments about EJ were rather unfair.

Let's look at the facts. EJ did not have his best game yesterday.  He wasn't awful though. His record as starting QB now sits at 14-4. That track record should have Noles fans excited. This guy is the most successful quarterback by record since Weinke. Also if you want to look at accuracy, his career completion percentage is 66.1%. That percentage is best in FSU history. Yes, that percentage is higher than Ward, Weinke, Weldon, Johnson, Kannell, Busby, and Ponder. This guy can lead. If you want to look at last year, he only lost 1 game in which he was able to play the whole way through. Additionally, he played through an injury for a large portion of that season. Also for pass efficiency he is 3rd in ACC history currently, behind only Chris Weinke and Joe Hamilton. Hamilton almost won a Heisman and Weinke did.

Look, I realize the backup QB is usually the most popular person in football, but let's not get crazy here. Trickett while also capable in my opinion, cannot do the same things EJ can. Do not forget that Clint Trickett is a bit undersized and 0-2 as a starter. Do not pin that loss to Wake on EJ. He was hurt, came in late, and still almost led the comeback. There is absolutely no QB controversy. Clint Trickett is no more deserving of an opportunity now than EJ was in the Ponder years. Some of the same people begging for EJ then are now calling for his head now. Absolutely insane. I like Trickett, but it is not his time yet.

Manuel has beaten West Virginia, Clemson, Florida, and South Carolina in his short time as starter. Let's have some faith and realize he is the guy.

Do I think EJ Manuel is currently the best QB in the country? No.
Do I think he is the best player on this team? No.
Do I think he is capable of leading FSU back to the National Title? You better believe it.

Sure, FSU might not win it all. Sure they may lose a game or two. Clemson and Virginia Tech are looking very very tough. However, if they do not win it all this year, it will not be because of EJ Manuel starting over Clint Trickett. The backup will have his time and can win if need be, but to say he is better is just foolish. Let's appreciate this future NFL QB a little more than some of us appreciated Christian Ponder. I know this is not all of the Seminole faithful, but it is some. To all those that believe, keep being supportive of EJ and let him know we got his back. I like our chances this season, and EJ is a big reason why.
Go Noles!!!

-Noland