The first thing that jumps out about Kevin Olsen's commitment is that he picked us. Sounds silly to say, but it is significant. This has not been a top 25 program in six years. Sanctions are looming coming off a 6-6 season. Olsen is a Top 10 quarterback with all of the resources to make an educated decision. He chose us.
Now let's talk about Olsen the player. His physical skill set is good, not great. At 6'3, 189 pounds, he has enough size but isn't huge. Olsen has a baby face, though, and you wonder how much development is still head of him. His brother Chris ended up at 6'3, 222 pounds, and Greg is 6'5, 255 pounds, so Kevin could end up as a well-sized quarterback when he physically matures.
Olsen's arm strength is not elite but very good for the college level. He does his best work on inside breaking routes, throwing slants, digs and posts with zip and accuracy. Outside the numbers he isn't as good, but he can make those throws.
The most underrated aspect of Olsen's game is his athleticism. He is a much better athlete than Dewey, Crow and Williams and can escape the pocket. His quickness is evident on his drops from under center, which are very advanced for a high school quarterback. Olsen can also throw on the run.
Olsen also excels in the "little things." His ball handling is the best I've seen from a Miami quarterback since I can remember. His fakes are excellent and will suit him very well in Jedd Fisch's offense.
The thing that sets Olsen apart is his background. His dad is a big-time coach, he grew up around the game and he knows what it takes. He is also used to winning (22-2 as a starter), dealing with expectations and playing in a pro-style offense. His transition should be easier than any quarterback we've signed in years.
The comparison I heard from someone on UM's staff was Craig Erickson. If Olsen ends up with a ring, I think any Canes fan will take that comparison.
Now let's talk about Olsen the player. His physical skill set is good, not great. At 6'3, 189 pounds, he has enough size but isn't huge. Olsen has a baby face, though, and you wonder how much development is still head of him. His brother Chris ended up at 6'3, 222 pounds, and Greg is 6'5, 255 pounds, so Kevin could end up as a well-sized quarterback when he physically matures.
Olsen's arm strength is not elite but very good for the college level. He does his best work on inside breaking routes, throwing slants, digs and posts with zip and accuracy. Outside the numbers he isn't as good, but he can make those throws.
The most underrated aspect of Olsen's game is his athleticism. He is a much better athlete than Dewey, Crow and Williams and can escape the pocket. His quickness is evident on his drops from under center, which are very advanced for a high school quarterback. Olsen can also throw on the run.
Olsen also excels in the "little things." His ball handling is the best I've seen from a Miami quarterback since I can remember. His fakes are excellent and will suit him very well in Jedd Fisch's offense.
The thing that sets Olsen apart is his background. His dad is a big-time coach, he grew up around the game and he knows what it takes. He is also used to winning (22-2 as a starter), dealing with expectations and playing in a pro-style offense. His transition should be easier than any quarterback we've signed in years.
The comparison I heard from someone on UM's staff was Craig Erickson. If Olsen ends up with a ring, I think any Canes fan will take that comparison.
