I wonder how much redshirting this past season and refusing to be used as a gimmick QB (think Tebow his frosh season at UF) hurt him.
By taking not being an option during the season, he provided Emory an opportunity. I have to imagine that if JB was available every week Dawson would have found a niche in each week's gameplan to utilize what JB offers as a player. Eventually, Dawson may have grown more comfortable (developed trust) adding more to JB's plate.
While I commend JB for making the mature decision of redshirting so he could focus on his development as a passer, I think that decision may have ultimately led him to be the odd man out.