The starting quarterback competition between Jeff Lockie and Vernon Adams is officially underway.
Saturday’s two-a-day practice wrapped up week one of fall camp, and was also Adams’ second day as a full participant.
Head coach Mark Helfrich, who spoke to the media for the first time since Adams’ arrival, acknowledged the learning curve Adams is facing, but also praised his efforts thus far.
“For a guy that’s been here for 48 hours, he did a pretty good job,” Helfrich said. “You can tell he has a lot of ability. He’s just trying to figure things out.”
And while Adams has been the main focus, Lockie is quietly continuing to impress coaches with his play in camp.
“Jeff had his best practice of spring and fall camp yesterday,” head coach Mark Helfrich said. “I think that says a lot about him and a lot about competition.”
To the casual observer, Adams is more than just another quarterback in the mix, but Lockie said little has changed for him since Adams started practicing.
“My mindset is going to stay the same,” Lockie said. “I can only do what I’m capable of and I’m just gonna do that to the best I can and see where that gets me.”
Lockie’s experience practicing with Oregon’s offense presumably gives him an edge, at least for right now, over Adams. The three-week window for Adams to feel comfortable in this offense is far from ideal. But coaches and players alike are trying to teach Adams as much as they can, including Lockie.
“It’s hard to tell, but he’s doing a good job,” Lockie said. “We’re out there taking notes every time, and he’s asking the right questions to us and coach (Scott) Frost. He sounds like he’s a pretty smart guy and I’m sure he’ll be able to pick it up pretty fast.”
One week through fall camp, little has changed between Lockie and Adams. Week two should provide some more concrete evidence as to who has the edge. Their competition, however, can only make themselves and the team better, according to Helfrich.
“It’s been a highly competitive situation, which is great for everybody,” Helfrich said.
Notes:
- Ty Griffin, who transferred from Georgia Tech last season as a quarterback, is moving to the cornerback position, according to Helfrich. Griffin’s move increases his chances of playing time, and Helfrich acknowledged playing cornerback is likely Griffin’s “fastest path to the field.”
- Saturday’s practice was open to season ticket holders to view at Autzen Stadium. “It’s great to have some reactions to a couple things,” Helfrich said.
- Lockie said he spoke with Marcus Mariota last night after Mariota’s first NFL preseason game with the Tennessee Titans. “He had a little rust at the beginning, but he’ll be the first to tell you it doesn’t count,” Lockie said.
Follow Will Denner on Twitter @Will_Denner