From Regan Hunsaker, SUU Athletics
CEDAR CITY, Utah – With only a few days left before the 2024 football season kicks off, the battle for the starting quarterback position has emerged as one of the most intriguing storylines. With many talented players vying for the role, head coach DeLane Fitzgerald faces a tough decision that will significantly impact the team’s success this year.
Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
“We have had a fierce quarterback competition over the past spring, summer, and into camp. For our coaching staff, it’s been a lot of fun watching the young man compete for the spot. They have supported each other And cheered each other on throughout the process, and that has been great to see. We will play two guys on Thursday night and let the competition continue.”
Jackson Berry: The Dual-Threat Athlete
Jackson Berry, another redshirt junior, hails from Prosper, Texas, and is entering his third season with the Thunderbirds. Although his playing time has been limited, Berry has shown flashes of his potential in previous seasons, particularly his ability to make plays with his legs. At Prosper High School, Berry completed over 400 career passes for 5,693 yards and 59 touchdowns, adding 790 rushing yards and 22 rushing touchdowns.
Berry’s dual-threat capability provides a different dynamic for the Thunderbirds’ offense, allowing for more versatility in play-calling. If Berry can continue to develop his passing game and demonstrate consistency, he could emerge as a serious contender for the starting spot.
Bronson Barron: A Proven Winner
Bronson Barron, a redshirt junior from American Fork, Utah, brings a wealth of experience to the Thunderbirds after transferring from Western Kentucky. Before his time there, Barron was a standout at Weber State, where he started all 13 games in 2022, leading the Wildcats to a 10-win season and a top 10 national ranking. Barron showcased his arm strength and decision-making ability, passing for 2,529 yards and 21 touchdowns while contributing on the ground with 202 rushing yards. His performance earned him Big Sky Player of the Week honors and Big Sky Academic All-Conference recognition.
Barron’s ability to make plays under pressure and his leadership skills make him a strong candidate for the starting job. His familiarity with high-stakes games and proven track record of success at the FCS level could give him the edge as the Thunderbirds seek stability and consistency at the quarterback position.
Jordan Pachot: The Accurate Gunslinger
Jordan Pachot, a redshirt junior from Highland, California, arrives at Southern Utah after a successful stint at Missouri State. Pachot made a significant impact in 2023, starting the season’s final seven games and throwing for over 200 yards in each contest. He finished the year with 2,285 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and a 67.5% completion rate, ranking among the nation’s top quarterbacks in several statistical categories.
Pachot’s accuracy and efficiency as a passer make him an appealing option for the Thunderbirds. His ability to make quick decisions and deliver the ball precisely could be key in an offense that values ball control and minimizing turnovers. Pachot’s experience and success at Missouri State suggest he is ready to take on the challenge of leading Southern Utah’s offense.
Back and Looking to Compete
Carston Naegle, a redshirt junior from North Salt Lake City, Utah, has yet to see significant playing time for the Thunderbirds but is eager to prove himself this season. With a full year of learning the system under his belt, Naegle is determined to make a strong impression in camp and earn a spot on the depth chart.
Brendan Anderson, a redshirt freshman from Glendale, Arizona, brings impressive high school credentials to the Thunderbirds’ quarterback competition. As a two-time first-team All-Region selection, Anderson shattered records at his high school, amassing 7,500 passing yards and 90 passing touchdowns—both school records. Although he did not see action in the fall of 2023, Anderson’s high school success and strong arm make him a promising young talent with the potential to contribute significantly to Southern Utah’s future offensive schemes.
A Season for the Signal Caller
The quarterback battle at Southern Utah promises to be one of the most closely watched competitions throughout the season’s early games. Each candidate has a unique skill set that could benefit the Thunderbirds in different ways, making the decision challenging for the coaching staff.
As the season opener approaches, all eyes will be on who ultimately wins the job and leads the Thunderbirds onto the field. With a talented roster and high expectations, the chosen quarterback will play a crucial role in Southern Utah’s success this season.
The Thunderbird Coaches Show
Don’t forget to check out the Thunderbird Coaches Show every Monday at 6:00 p.m. MT. You can watch it on YouTube by clicking here or find it on your favorite podcast sites like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Tickets
Season tickets, mini packages, and single-game tickets are now available! Get yours today by visiting tbirdtickets.com
Follow Us
For all the latest on Southern Utah football, follow @SUUFB_ on Twitter, @SUUFB on Instagram, and like the Southern Utah Football Facebook page.