So, I got my wish. And I think we have an answer. I included the first self-quote from above because this game I think illustrated the point. Bagent in his first start looks like a professional QB behind this line, with these WRs and with these coaches calling ceaseless screens.
The numbers weren’t eye popping, and the Raiders defense isn’t exactly elite, but Bagent was calm, collected and efficient. When plays went sideways he usually managed to complete a pass for a short gain or at least not take a crippling sack. His balls were accurate (72.4 completion %; 97.2 rating) and when he was checking down or throwing screens, he got the ball out quick and in a catchable position so that the receiver could get upfield for positive yardage. He used his legs effectively and he completed passes to 8 different players. He didn’t attack anything downfield all game but I’m sure that was the conservative game plan with the running game working so well. And importantly, he didn’t show even show a hint of nerves, dude played with swagger, which is saying something considering his last 6 regular season opponents were East Stroudsburg, Bloomsburg, West Chester, Millersville, Lock Haven, and Shippensburg.
After just one start the jury is of course still out on Bagent. We need to see him do it consistently and under more adverse circumstances. We need to see him in a come-from-behind situation. We need to see him with the governors off to see if he can make splash plays. We need to see him do it in Lambeau. But I immediately feel like we have a better chance to win with Bagent out there over Fields.
Linking the above hyperbole from the original Preseason thread…
The world is officially on notice.