OP, I think that you make good points and I agree. And I do think that in spite of the issues the team had this year, including with the QB controversy, I do think they believe in him. And for as much as some people like to knock him for his physical attributes, Doug has said that the staff believes there isn't anything he can't do physically.

He's had some ups and downs as a Rookie, but I think he has been impressive overall. He had some issues with fumbling in the first half of the season, but he cleaned that up a lot. I think after he returned to the starting line up in the 2nd half of the season, he only had like 1 fumble and also 1 interception. And that was in the last game this year. They have been working with him regarding ball security and I do think him getting those extra 7 on 7 periods in practice helped him. 

Also, I would like to see what he can do with better protection and some decent and healthy TE's. While the Jags have definitely struggled in the red zone this year, they were actually very efficient earlier on in the season. I can't remember what exactly the statistic was, but I think they were at the top (maybe #1) at getting to the red zone and scoring. I'll see if I can find what it was but, I believe this was mentioned in the Panthers game broadcast. 

And interestingly enough, I think things really went downhill regarding their efficiency in the red zone after that game. Because that is the game where O'Shaughnessy got hurt. He had good chemistry with Minshew. I do think that losing him had a significant impact on the offense and their efficiency. Hopefully, he can come back healthy next season and I think that could really help Minshew and the Jags offense. 

Overall, Gardner has done a pretty good job this year as a rookie, let alone a sixth round rookie, that no one expected to start. He's out performed the other rookies QB's in some areas, and has been right there with them in other areas. If he had started all 16 games, I do believe he would be more of a favorite for OROY. I hope he continues to grow and makes some nice strides forward next season.

---