He’s had better pocket awareness this season, it’s just some are loathe to admit it.
He has, since he's not getting sacked on almost every pass play. He's also doing a better job of running the ball on designed plays and chucking it away (more often) when it's time. On scrambles, he's been able to hit receivers that improvise to get open. Obviously he knows the offense better than Shrader, his arm accuracy is superior and he's the only QB able to reach all parts of the field. Most of the TD-WR issues have been the receiver cutting off a route, failing to recognize a blitz or zone coverage, or dropping the ball. So yes, TD has had problems dealing with pressure and hasn't lead us to the promised land (wins). But many of the reasons behind our record are outside of his control - play calling, O-line problems, WR drops/breakdowns, turnovers, penalties and poor field position.
So on balance, it seems to me that TD has now separated himself as the starter. But unlike some others I don't think about this in a binary way, as though the starter should be anointed forever, or that one is great and the other trash. Both QB's bring qualities to the table. If TD starts, Shrader can back him up if he's nicked up or not playing well - just like TD did for Dungey. Meanwhile, Shrader can learn the offense and work on his deficiencies.
Down the road, even if he isn't the best option
right now, I think Shrader has starter talent. I'm not going to crucify him for errant throws since, before this year, the guy hadn't thrown a live pass in 20 months. He's obviously got the moxxie ("poise"), the vision and the legs to be a leader; he's just needs work on his mechanics. Shrader is excellent in finding receivers in unsettled situations. But on designed shots - 20+ yard passes - releasing off his back foot has limited his effectiveness. No doubt the staff sees this ... and will work with him. Accuracy will improve with better mechanics and game reps, which he'll get when Tommy gets nicked up or falters. So the fact that Shrader might not be the best option at the moment doesn't mean he can't help us. Heck, the very fact that there's even a QB controversy is an improvement.
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