The OP is taking about a professional QB who have already showed the ability and high performance level or they would have never been offered a contract. Not many college backup QB ever make it in professional football. Comparing that situation to college ball where the backup QB may or may not have the ability to play at that level is not a valid comparison. I do recognize that some people shine under pressure when given the chance, but that is usually the exception. Players that excel usually show it during practice. I have watched MU football since the 1960's and only a few backup QB were ever better than the starter. You can name these players on one hand with missing a finger.
That said, I wish we had a QB that is a conference player or might be able to play on Sunday. JMO
It?s a valid comparison. Every QB in the NFL is, by definition, an NFL QB just like every QB on an FBS roster is, by definition, an FBS QB. NFL QBs prove themselves in college. College QBs prove themselves in high school. If they didn?t then how did they get a scholarship?
The problem for back ups proving themselves is most never get the opportunity. When you go into fall camp with a starter from the previous year that guy is getting the most, and best quality, reps. He has the first team line and the first team receivers and backs. A lot of times it takes injuries to get opportunities, not just to play but quality practice reps and more attention from the coaches.
I?m not making any statement about our QB situation, just pointing out that the coaches of any team don?t necessarily fully investigate and know with certainty who there best 22 are. They simply don?t have enough time to give the same attention and evaluation to 85 players every week.