QBs Lemar Jackson and Deshaun Watson Leading Next Generation of Black QBs

College football fan or not, it’s highly unlikely that you didn’t at least hear about the hype surrounding the Clemson-Louisville game. This was more than a matchup between the number 3 and number 5 teams in the country. This was more than a clash between two undefeated teams in college football. This really came down to the showdown between Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson and Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson. The praise both have received, especially Lemar Jackson, is very significant in its own right.

In a game that started off slow offensively with gut-wrenching turnovers throughout, Watson and his Clemson Tigers came out on top in a 42–36 win. Both quarterbacks did not play perfect games with several turnovers, but they did show why they are so highly regarded. Down the road, they have great chances to possess long-term careers in the NFL, but for now, they are college football stars.

There have been several previous black quarterbacks recently to headline college football. Vince Young, Robert Griffin III, and Cam Newton are ones who come to mind over the past decade. In this day in age, black quarterbacks are finally being given these opportunities to lead and carry college programs and NFL franchises. The idea that many black quarterbacks don’t have the mental capacity and football IQ to be long-term quarterbacks has haunted generations of black football players.

Quarterbacks like Watson and Jackson are becoming more appreciated for attributes besides their athletic ability. They are being recognized as great throwers as well. Although the equality is still not there compared to their white counterparts, characteristics such as an “accurate thrower” and “heavy arm” are being used more often when appropriate.

For a while, black quarterbacks have truly been code for dual threat quarterbacks, but the sports world has come a long way. Michael Vick was the Lemar Jackson of Virginia Tech years ago, but continuously criticized for not having the throwing ability to succeed at the next level. Although Lemar Jackson was a much better passer than Michael Vick during his college days, commentators and analysts continually found ways to criticize or put an asterisk next to his talent and ability.

When have we seen a quarterback such as Tim Tebow in the black community who’s been giving so many opportunities and applause, yet can’t throw out of the pocket to save his life? The answer to that is none. For now, there is still inequality, but eventually, quarterbacks like Watson and Jackson will be judged accordingly on their pocket passing ability, no matter the color of their skin or their 40 yard dash.