Chester's pro-style quarterback Tony McNeal has been on everyone's radar for three years. The 6-1, 185lbs signal caller has been one of the more productive quarterbacks in the state for each of the past three seasons. This past season, McNeal completed 179 of 219 passes for 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns. His junior season was plagued by injury, but he still managed 1,732 yards and 18 scores, and his sophomore season, completed 244 passes for 3,533 yards and 37 touchdowns. He is committed to Clemson.
A bit about quarterbacks:
A common misconception when grading a quarterback prospect is bigger is better. These days, size isn't everything. The quarterback position has become less about height, weight and speed and more about feel, vision and mental toughness.
A good quarterback prospect must have at least adequate arm strength and show good zip on the ball. The deep comeback route is the best measurement of arm strength - if the quarterback can deliver the comeback throw on a rope and without a lot of arc, his arm strength is at least adequate.
Also, the transition continues from the big, immobile drop-back passer to the player who can buy extra time with his athletic ability. Today's quarterbacks must also have leadership qualities and above-average character. The ability to play under pressure is scrutinized during the recruiting process; any team will often mirror the personality of its quarterback. This position requires a tough person, mentally and physically.
However, because intangibles are such a factor, many quarterbacks can be
misevaluated coming out of high school. Plus, these kids are young. Making
projections on 17-year-old players two to four years in the future is not an exact science. System quarterbacks with great high school numbers also tend to get overrated, just as quarterbacks with little to no statistics get passed by because of the often-used Wing-T or option-oriented offense at the high school level.
| Jim Baxter's Evaluation of Tony McNeal |
| Arm Strength: McNeal has better than adequate arm strength, with good RPMs and wrist snap to get good velocity. He throws nice spirals and can through the mid-range to deep outs with good zip. Set up quicks: Difficult to eval as he is rarely under center, but has quick feet, good balance when set, with good body position. Accuracy: Throws the deep ball with very good placement and has a nice touch on his short ball. Always throws catchable balls. Field vision: Has good vision and ability to find No. 2 quickly. Running ability: Not a threat to beat you with his legs, but good enough mobility to keep himself out of trouble; makes plays on the run, avoids pressure well. Delivery: Has a quick release on the ball; overall, has pretty good mechanics. Sometimes short-arms the ball. Ball handling: Needs to work on ball fakes in the backfield. Does a good job of looking off defenders. Leadership: There is no doubt that McNeal has good leadership skills. He has the ability to make things happen when things are not going well; is poised under pressure and bounces back after bad plays. Not easily rattled. |
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