2. Rookie QB concerns
Zach Wilson endured the nightmare of four interceptions, including the first two passes of his first two drives. He had just three interceptions last season at BYU.
Between the lousy footwork, bad decisions, and lack of talent around him, it's little wonder Wilson never established a rhythm (19-of-33, 210 yards, zero touchdowns).
He got sacked four times, hit seven times, and ran for his life, avoiding open shots on the QB created by the new blocking scheme. It’s almost impossible to win with poor QB play, and many of his passes were off, but two of those four interceptions got tipped by his receivers.
How could the kid’s confidence not be shaken?
Similar to Mac Jones, Wilson shouldn’t have to be the savior. Instead, he should be a game manager. The coaches must make Wilson’s life easier, and they must manage the expectations Wilson has of himself.
It’s all going to take some time. Young quarterbacks are adapting to the speed of the pro game, so they overreach trying to make big plays and throw the ball all over the field. These are the expectations when starting a rookie.
Wilson must learn to protect the football, not rely on "rinky-dink" college passes, and understand that he cannot dominate NFL playing field talent. But his fearless grit and determination, and “it factor” cannot be denied.
Let’s also keep reminding ourselves that Peyton Manning had 28 interceptions in his rookie season.