I know many on this board are hoping for Bridgewater. After watching a we games this year, I have concerns over if he will be the second coming of Gabbert. I do think Bridgewater looks very poised in the pocket. You can see him making his progression, reading the defense and receivers as the play unfolds. But... I also see a lot of short passes and down field drops. I tried to find specific stats on the current draft drop and their ball distribution and I can up with three sites (if you have more post them).

 

First, the ball distribution chart: http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/224444...quency.jpg

You'll notice that 60% of Bridgewaters attempts are less than 9 yards. 13% are 10-14 yards. Passes beyond 25 yards are a rarity (3.4%). By comparison, Boyd (Clemson) takes far more attempts down field (14%). I am not saying Boyd is the QB to draft, but the it made me wonder why?

 

Second, I looked at the completion rates: http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/224444...letion.jpg.

Again what I find gives me reason to pause: Bridgewater shows 0 completions beyond 25 yards. Boyd fairs no better. Interesting enough, David Carr was the down field leader of names usually in the top 5 discussion.

 

Third, I asked is this fully a QB or receiver problem? Again, stats were scant but I did find this: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/18137...-nfl-draft. Bridgewater appears to have numerous dropped passes. So why the drops? Poor receivers? Thrown into coverage? Accuracy issues? The film summary seems to indicate some of all. Mariota on the other hand looks solid.

 

So what to make of this? I don't think Bridgewater is a lock for a franchise QB, but I'll reserve judgement until after end of season.

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