The college football season will be dominated by the likes of Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston, but one NFL scout believes he has found a player that tops them both. Utah State’s Chuckie Keeton could be this year’s breakout star at quarterback.

Bucky Brooks of NFL.com believes that the small school reputation that Keeton gets has enhanced his game and he could be a pleasant surprise come the football season.

“Listed at 6-2, 200 pounds, Keeton is certainly not the imposing presence of Mariota or Hundley, but is an efficient dual-threat playmaker with an impressive resume. He completed over 69 percent of his passes and posted an 18:2 touchdown-to-interception ratio in a solid junior campaign that was cut short due to an ACL injury. In addition, Keeton displayed the mobility and elusiveness to flee the pocket under duress, while maintaining the awareness, poise and savvy to make pinpoint throws down the field. With NFL teams becoming increasingly comfortable with a run-pass threat in the backfield, Keeton's skills as a mobile playmaker fit the mold of the "new school" quarterback that's taking over the league.”

An unnamed scout in the NFC North said he believes Keeton is better than both Mariota and UCLA’s Brett Hundley. Many believe Keeton’s status depends on how he returns from the ACL injury he suffered last season.

In six games in 2013, Keeton threw for 1,388 yards with 18 touchdowns and two interceptions. He also managed to run for 241 yards and two touchdowns. Keeton’s sophomore year was much more successful as he there for 3,372 yards with 27 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Keeton could use one healthy year under his belt to prove scouts right about his potential.

[NFL.com]

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