Here's a breakdown of the three quarterbacks from the North team after
watching Tuesday's 90-minute practice:
Dan LeFevour/Central Michigan
Arm Strength: LeFevour, based on the way he threw in this practice,
doesn't have a strong arm. He couldn't get any power into his throws nor did he
get a good push off his back foot.
Accuracy: Like many of the quarterbacks here in Mobile this week, he
tended to rush his throws. Because of that, many of LeFevour's passes were
inaccurate during this practice session.
Pocket Awareness/Movement: Moving away from the rush wasn't an issue at
all for LeFevour. He seemed to sense oncoming pass rushers well.
Mechanics: LeFevour struggled with his footwork during this session.
Because of that, he may have lost some power in his throws. His release point
also seemed to be an issue for him.
Sean Canfield/Oregon St.
Arm Strength: Canfield simply was unable to drive the ball down field
with any accuracy or power. He doesn't get enough power off of his back foot and
also tends to push the ball a bit.
Accuracy: While he clearly has a below average arm, Canfield has nice
touch on fades 25-30 yards down field. That's an area of his game where he's
strong--making touch passes. He seems to have a good feel for that part of his
game. However, when he's called upon to make stick or tougher throws, he was
unable to do that with any accuracy because of his apparent lack of arm
strength.
Pocket Awareness/Movement: Canfield doesn't have great feet, but was
still able to move around well enough to find functional space to throw the
ball.
Mechanics: Canfield needs to put the ball back further during his
throwing motion in order to get more power. He also needs to get better torque
or force into his throws. His footwork also could be improved.
Tony Pike/Cincinnati
Arm Strength: There's no question that Pike has an above average arm from
watching him throw live. He's able to throw with power by pushing off his back
foot. He was able to get his ball through the mild breeze during the Tuesday
morning practice to his intended receiver.
Accuracy: Because his rushes his throws every once in a while, Pike's
passes would tend to sail over his intended target. He's able to drive the ball
outside the numbers and hash area fairly well.
Pocket Awareness/Movement: Pike had little trouble moving around in the
pocket during the practice session. It doesn't hurt that he's a tall
quarterback. He's able to see over his offensive line rather easily.
Mechanics: Pike's footwork was inconsistent, and as a result, some of his
passes went awry. Since he has a good release point, Pike is able to get good
power into his throws. When he slows down, Pike is able to make most throws.