With the season fast approaching, UNLV head coach Dan Mullen is in no rush to name his starting quarterback. Junior transfers Anthony Colandrea (Virginia) and Alex Orji (Michigan) are both making strong cases for playing time, and Mullen says the competition could extend well into the regular season.
“Both are doing a good job,” Mullen said. “Not even close to (naming a starter). Maybe the second or third or fourth game. I don’t even know.”
While an extended quarterback battle can keep players motivated and ensure the best man ultimately wins the job, it also raises a question could delaying the decision create friction within the offense?
A starting quarterback is often the de facto leader of a football team, setting the tone in the huddle and developing chemistry with skill position players. Without a defined leader going into Week 1, timing, rhythm, and communication could suffer, especially for a UNLV offense already dealing with major turnover and a rebuilt offensive line.
That said, Mullen’s approach might also keep both QBs engaged, giving the Rebels flexibility and competition deep into the season. The real test will be whether the offense can stay unified and effective until a clear starter emerges.
Not the ideal situation
Without a doubt, Dan Mullin is one of the best developers when it comes to quarterbacks. His approach has always been different. It’s never been orthodox but nevertheless, his approach works. So you would just have to remain patient while he’s trying to find his guy. But this isn’t ideal by any means. You want a guy to emerge and have the team rally around that guy. We will continue to monitor the QB battle during summer camp.
Anthony Colandrea Battling for UNLV Starting Quarterback Job
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Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
