Introduction
Quarterback is one of the most important positions in American football. It is the role that requires the most leadership, decision making, and arm strength. Two quarterbacks who have recently caught the attention of football fans are Justin Herbert and Geno Smith. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two quarterbacks to determine who is the better player.
Background Information
Justin Herbert was born on March 10, 1998, in Eugene, Oregon. He played college football at the University of Oregon before being drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Geno Smith was born on October 10, 1990, in Miramar, Florida. He played college football at West Virginia University before being drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Both players have had successful college careers, but their NFL careers have been quite different.
College Career
During his time at the University of Oregon, Justin Herbert set numerous records and won multiple awards. He finished his college career with 10,541 passing yards, 95 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions. He was named to the All-Pac-12 team in 2018 and 2019.
Geno Smith was also a standout in college, playing for the West Virginia Mountaineers from 2009 to 2012. He finished his college career with 11,662 passing yards, 98 touchdowns, and 21 interceptions. He was named to the All-Big East team in 2011 and the All-Big 12 team in 2012.
NFL Career
Justin Herbert has only been in the NFL for one season, but he has already made a big impact. In his rookie year, he threw for 4,336 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and was selected to the Pro Bowl.
Geno Smith has had a more up-and-down NFL career. He played for the New York Jets from 2013 to 2016, the New York Giants in 2017, the Los Angeles Chargers in 2018, and the Seattle Seahawks from 2019 to 2020. He has thrown for 6,211 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 36 interceptions in his career.
Playing Style
Justin Herbert is known for his arm strength and accuracy. He has the ability to make deep throws downfield and can fit the ball into tight windows. He is also mobile and can scramble out of the pocket when necessary.
Geno Smith is a more traditional pocket passer. He does not have the same arm strength as Herbert, but he makes up for it with his decision making and accuracy. He is also a capable runner, but he is not as fast or agile as Herbert.
Leadership Ability
Quarterbacks are often judged on their leadership ability, and both Justin Herbert and Geno Smith have shown that they can lead their teams. Herbert was named a team captain during his rookie year, and his teammates have praised his work ethic and dedication. Smith has also been a team captain in the past and has shown that he can inspire his teammates on and off the field.
Conclusion
So, who is the better quarterback: Justin Herbert or Geno Smith? While both players have had success in college and the NFL, it is clear that Herbert has the edge. He has a stronger arm, is more mobile, and has already shown that he can be a star in the NFL. Smith, on the other hand, has had a more inconsistent career and has not been able to establish himself as a starter in the league. In the end, it is likely that Herbert will continue to be one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL for years to come.