Are they really that different that it's going to be worth mixing it up? Coaches usually only go with a mix if they have two guys that are very different QBs.
I don't think it would be anything major, but if Hendrix is #2 next year I think he'll see some snaps when the Irish have a decent lead, or maybe down near the goal line where he's a bigger threat to run the ball.
No other quarterback on the roster fits this offense like Hendrix.
Watching his recruiting tapes I was very impressed with his mobility, footwork and presence in the pocket. People will say that it was just H.S. and that doesn't mean anything and that's true, but he played against some really good competition and in my opinion, he is MUCH more athletic than Crist was coming out of the prep ranks.
Watching Crist's tapes from high school he is athletic but not nearly on the same level as Hendrix. With the knee injury, pro system for 2 years and probably bulking up since H.S. Crist's decent athleticism has really diminished into nothing special.
Crist's footwork is a bit slow, whereas Hendrix is very quick. Crist escapes from a defender but doesn't really take off, whereas Hendrix pulls away from defenders. Maybe most importantly, Hendrix seems to have that good presence to get away from rushers with really good escapability and ability to get outside and run or make a play with his arm.
Again, that was in high school but I'm just saying to me, it looks a lot more athletic and much more of a runner than Crist. That he was getting rave reviews from the defensive coaches for running the scout team and the option is probably another good sign that he is very athletic.
That doesn't mean I think he's going to beat Crist out, I'd still put my money that Dayne is the guy through 2012, but I would wager that Hendrix is going to quickly settle into the backup position and push him. My guess is we'll see him make a couple plays during the spring game and a lot of people will start realizing this kid is pretty darn good.
What it will all come down to is accuracy and decision making. I thought Crist had a big advantage in the throwing game vs. Hendrix, but with Kelly's praise with Hendrix (ridiculously strong arm, quick release, etc.) Crist may not have that much of an advantage.
These are all just my opinons of course, but I think Hendrix is going to be very, very good.
