[Dirtbag59]

Thought this was interesting. Per Mel Kiper:

Q: How much does the way Jimmy Clausen play remind you of Brady Quinn? I'm only wondering because Quinn slipped in the draft and hasn't made an impact in the NFL yet.

-- Jordan (Melrose, Mass.)


A: They're two completely different guys, the biggest (and closest) similarity being that both were coached by Charlie Weis. In the case of Quinn, let's at least point out that the jury is still out on how this guy will be perceived as an NFL quarterback. He still has a chance, bottom line, and that's up to Mike Holmgren and Eric Mangini. But to compare, start with style. Clausen, despite really gaudy TD-INT numbers, has a bit of riverboat gambler in him, and until this year, his surrounding team and blocking were bad. Quinn played with much better talent and didn't have to gamble as much. Clausen played for a team where the defense wasn't stopping people, and it became clear he felt he had to score. That he took his shots and still didn't make mistakes says a lot. Clausen is also a more accurate thrower. Their arm strength is similar -- neither guy is remarkable there, but both can get it done. Neither is a scrambler, but they can both maneuver decently around the pocket.

One thing I'll say about Clausen: He's tough, and when I talk to people who know, his marks as a competitor are simply off the charts. Former Notre Dame defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta told me that if everyone played with Clausen's competitiveness, everyone on the previous coaching staff would still have their jobs. Golden Tate said he can't remember throws that were off the mark, and Tate, as good as he is, doesn't get much separation as a receiver. Clausen had to put it on him. I know Clausen could drop, and I'm higher on him than a lot of people, but this kid's done well and played hurt, and he's done it under center, which means a lot. He could even go higher than Bradford when it's all said and done.