It’s a difficult question that may prompt a difficult answer.
Nicco Marchiol is now 3-0 as a starter at West Virginia. He’s won back-to-back games this season after starting quarterback Garrett Greene’s injury in the first half of WVU’s loss to Kansas State; his other win as a starter came last year against Texas Tech.
While Marchiol didn’t look great against Cincinnati, he still got the job done, delivering a touchdown in the air and one with his legs. Against Arizona though, he looked about as good as he could’ve hoped, completing over 80% of his passes and throwing for two touchdowns.
That could be a concern, though. Can Marchiol stay consistent while WVU is trying to salvage the 2024 season?
Undoubtedly, these extra few games would be huge for Marchiol’s development, who is in line to be the Mountaineers’ next undisputed starter and has been for two seasons. There is just one problem with him taking over right now that I have yet to fully address: Garrett Greene.
Greene has given it his all to West Virginia since his first snap under center. He’s been complimented as a true competitor by coaches, teammates and even some opposing coaches.
Greene is now a senior and this is his last season in college football. Do you do the respectable thing and let him finish out the season/his career?
Something that has to be taken into account, is Greene’s injury. He was available as the emergency quarterback, but will he be 100% healthy?
A couple of weeks ago, head coach Neal Brown said something along the lines of that he doesn’t think it’s right for a guy to lose their job while they’re injured.
Greene also adds another facet to the offense that Marchiol can’t totally compete with. His rushing ability.
If Marchiol continues to take first-team reps, it could only allow him to get more comfortable and possibly perform better week after week.
My take is that you start Marchiol. The playing time will be huge for his development. However, you keep him on a short leash. If, for whatever reason, he begins to struggle, you bring in the veteran, Greene, assuming he’s totally healthy.
