It was a few years ago that Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio dumped and released QB Byron Leftwich at the end of preseason in favor of young up and coming QB David Garrard.
Many felt 2011 would be a repeat of that in Jacksonville, as some felt Garrard would be shown the door for rookie Blaine Gabbert.
Not going to happen. At least not to start the season.
Del Rio said today “David’s our starter,” which is something he’s said throughout the spring, summer and training camp, even as Gabbert put up a good fight in camp.
It was last weekend in preseason that Gabbert looked pretty lost against the Falcons that probably sealed the deal for Garrard to be the starter.
Del Rio did officially give Garrard the starting job for game one today, but also said that Garrard also has to make strides.
“We need more efficiency offensively and certainly the trigger man plays a large role in that,” he continued. “I think it all ties together. You know how I feel about it being a team game that we play and the timing of the routes with the receivers and the protection up front and the quarterback making good decisions delivering the ball. It all comes together and then you’re able to do things offensively”
There’s no doubt that the countdown continues towards Gabbert being the starting QB, but for now, Garrard has another shot to keep the rookie on the bench. It will now be up to him to try and keep him there.
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