Arguably the most important position in June Jones’ run-and-shoot offense is the quarterback. Although Kyle Padron appears to have the starting spot locked down for the next three years, it is always important to have the next great gun-slinger waiting patiently for their turn to lead the offense. I believe that Jones has found his next quarterback of the future in Steve Kaiser.
Steve Kaiser, from De Smet Jesuit High School in St. Louis, Missouri, was a scout.com three-star recruit and the #67th ranked quarterback in country. The 6-3, 215 lbs Kaiser was sought by Colorado, Colorado State, and Wisconsin before ultimately deciding to come to Dallas to play for June Jones’ pass heavy offense. When asked about Jones’ system last year during one of his first visits to campus, Kaiser told PonyStampede.com, “I loved how much they threw the ball. That is what I like to do as a quarterback. It caught my eye especially when my coach was telling me about it, and I definitely got a clearer picture of it today. It was exciting.”
After watching film of Kaiser during his senior year of high school, it is easy to see why he would want to come play for Jones. His accuracy and quick release make him a dangerous short yardage passer, and his strong arm and ability to move well in the pocket allow him to complete the passes that others his age would not even consider attempting. His 4.7 speed will not win him foot races, but he does have the awareness to make a break for it when his pocket collapses.
Kaiser finished his senior year at De Smet Jesuit with over 1,700 yards, 25 touchdowns and only 3 interceptions. His team finished 12-1, with the only loss coming in his final game where he was knocked out with a concussion. Kaiser’s size, passing ability and football IQ make him the total package for Jones’ system.
Although Kaiser will have to wait his turn behind Kyle Padron, the thought of a backup role does not concern him at the moment. When asked about Padron, Kaiser told PonyStampede, "Kyle did great and I have asked the question to the coaches, is the best player still going to be play. They said yes, so I'm just training hard to have a fighting chance. It should be fun.”
If Kaiser is as advertised it would not be surprising if he redshirted his freshman year so that he can potentially have an extra year to start. Whether or not he is redshirted, it is never a disadvantage to have depth at the quarterback position. SMU fans should be excited to see what one of Missouri’s most coveted recruits has to offer after Padron’s time in Dallas is complete.
Enter Kaiser Soze joke here.
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