Diaco: 2015 Starting QB is Up for Grabs, Wants Position Solidified by End of Spring
Following today’s 27-20 disheartening loss to SMU to close the 2014 season, UConn head coach Bob Diaco closed his press conference by going out of his way to talk about the future of the quarterback position, heading into the offseason.
He began by disclosing that today’s starting quarterback, Tim Boyle, has been hampered by multiple injuries for the entire year.
“As it relates to the quarterback play, we got Timmy [Boyle] some great work,” he said. “He has been battling, I have my own limitations for disclosure, not big, big deals, but he’s really been courageous. Let’s just say, under the weather for a full season. He’ll have his two issues taken care of here in the next month, issues he’s been dealing with for the whole year.”
As for Diaco’s comment about Boyle being the ‘quarterback of the future?’
“He [Boyle] surely didn’t cement himself as the guy,” he said following the loss. “Reinforcements are coming. Bryant [Shirreffs} is activated and Tyler [Davis] will be here in a few weeks. That will be an open competition. Everyone will get work with the 1’s and the next man in and clearly have a decision coming out of spring ball and really spend time getting that guy ready to play.”
I did not get specifics on the injuries Boyle has been playing with, but his play was undoubtedly affected, finishing the season 39-71 for 306 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions. In today’s loss, Boyle only managed four completions, going 4-11 for 29 yards.
“The issues weren’t significant, they didn’t put him in harms way, just a nag. Did it effect his play? Sure there is some element to that,” Diaco confirmed.
Boyle was more than open about assessing his play, given the opportunities he received throughout 2014.
“[I was] not very good,” he said following today’s loss. “I have a long way to go. I know that, the coaches know that and the team knows that. I’m not anywhere near satisfied with myself and it’s just going to motivate me in the offseason to get better.”
What does he want to focus on during that time off to improve?
“I want to put on some weight, get a little more healthier, get bigger physically and just become a better leader,” he said. “I want to understand the offense in and out. I need to be a game manager, understand what the play is, what the play clock is and try to get us in the right position to succeed.”
The alarm bells have been sounded. The future direction of the program at the QB position will be settled in the spring, which should make for a very interesting next four months.
by 
