Alabama State’s Quarterback Dilemma: How Will Eddie Robinson Jr. Utilize Andrew Body?
MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Does Alabama State Head Coach Eddie Robinson Jr. have a plan for transfer quarterback Andrew Body? If you watched the 2024 Orange Blossom Classic, you might be asking yourself the same question. How exactly does Alabama State intend to utilize Body? Is he still considered a quarterback, or is he morphing into a quarterback-running back hybrid, much like Southern University used the dynamic Ladarius Skelton in recent years?
In his debut as a Hornet, Body’s role was puzzling. He attempted just six passes, completing four for a mere 27 yards. However, he made his presence felt on the ground, leading the team in rushing with 15 carries for 134 yards and two touchdowns. It’s clear that Body’s legs are a weapon, but is that enough to carry Alabama State to the top of the SWAC East?
Body split time with another transfer, quarterback Jonah O’Brien, who struggled mightily, completing only 5 of 11 passes for 61 yards and throwing two interceptions. The lackluster performance through the air left Alabama State searching for answers as they fell to North Carolina Central, 31-24. For a team picked to finish first in the SWAC East, the Hornets seem to have more questions than answers.
It’s still early in the season, but there’s an old saying in football: if you have a two-quarterback system, you don’t have a quarterback. Alabama State will need to figure out its quarterback situation quickly if it hopes to live up to the preseason hype. As for Andrew Body, whether he’s the key to their success or just another piece in a confusing puzzle remains to be seen.
