College football Week 1 preview: How much has Terrelle Pryor improved as a passer?

Sat, Aug 29, 2009

Matt Hayes isn’t waiting until Week 2 to watch Ohio State QB Terrelle Pryor.

Seven things I can’t wait to see in Week 1, while wondering at what point the rods and cones in my head begin to misfire from the Thunder Green, Lightning Yellow and Smurf Blue at the Oregon-Boise State game.

1. The evolution of Terrelle Pryor

The potential, frankly, is scary. Let’s not compare Pryor to Vince Young just yet, because by his junior season, Young had developed into an accurate thrower and complete quarterback.

Pryor isn’t there yet, but there better be some indication against Navy that he has made significant strides as a thrower if Ohio State can win a big game out of conference. Forget about saving anything for the huge nonconference game against USC a week later. Let it all hang out against Navy, and test the rebuilt offensive line and receivers for four quarters.

2. The inidual matchup of the weekend

Alabama will miss left tackle Andre Smith more than any other player from last year’s 12-win team. And wouldn’t you know it, projected starter and junior college transfer James Carpenter gets what could be his toughest test of the season against Virginia Tech end Jason Worilds — and whatever else aggressive Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster throws at him.

Because the Hokies will be playing without star tailback Darren Evans, they’ll need the defense to set the tone and create turnovers. There’s no better way to welcome a new starting quarterback like the Tide’s Greg McElroy than with multiple blitz packages and a rush end that can’t be blocked straight up.

If McElroy plays nervously and is constantly avoiding pressure, Tech can find a way to win the fourth quarter with terrific special teams.

3. Playing for keeps

Look, it’s San Jose State, which means USC could win by 40 if burly guard Jeff Byers were playing quarterback.

But there’s something about throwing on the silk jersey and playing in front of 90,000 at the Coliseum that can change a player. Especially one who threw 18 interceptions in high school last year and more than his share during fall camp.

It’s hard to argue with USC coach Pete Carroll, hard to second-guess his decision to name freshman Matt Barkley his starter for the season opener. But I’m telling you right now: this thing isn’t over. Aaron Corp, who won the job in spring practice, will play this year. And don’t be surprised if Mitch Mustain, the …