Brandon McIlwain
Video by Jeff Tyner, analysis by Wes Mitchell
Evaluation by Matt O'Brien
What I like: There really isn’t much to dislike about McIlwain. His athleticism is what jumps off immediately when watching tape. McIlwain is a dual-threat quarterback whose speed can be used as a weapon in the run game, as well as to help him buy extra time outside the pocket for his receivers to get open. His arm strength is solid and he delivers a very catchable ball – meaning a tight spiral with an appropriate velocity based on the distance of the receiver he’s targeting. The things I really like about McIlwain are his work ethic, intelligence from the position, and leadership intangibles. He embodies what you want from your quarterback, and will be a guy who the team will follow on the field, in the weight room, in film-study, and beyond. As a defensive player, I can you tell you that a QB like McIlwain is difficult to prepare for and perform against. His dual-threat ability, cool-calm demeanor, and improvisational skills are rarely packaged together in one player, and I have no doubt his talent will translate well to the college level.
Instant Impact? With all of the inconsistencies at the quarterback position this past season, McIlwain should be given every opportunity to win the starting job. There will be a steep learning curve, but there are three main non-talent reasons I believe McIlwain will be able to step in and play right away: 1) he’s enrolling early which will give him extra time to learn the offense, develop chemistry with teammates, and acclimate to the higher level of football. 2) he’s coachable and is willing to put in the extra work on field and in the film room. 3) a new coaching staff means the battle for the starting job will be wide open, and I have to like McIlwain’s odds to win it.
Rivals rating: Based on how Rivals defines its rating system, it’s hard to disagree with McIlwain’s 5.8 four-star billing. Although McIlwain is on the low-end of the four-star spectrum, he is deemed to have pro potential based on his rating – which indicates he will likely be a very good college player, as well.