The NFL preseason provided one of the most interesting matches of rookie quarterbacks as Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders played their first professional game. Both came into the league with high expectations: Dart, the first-round pick of the New York Giants, and Sanders, the fifth-round pick of the Cleveland Browns. Both also showed why their high-profile names have been making waves since draft night.
Though the two signal-callers made their respective impressions, the difference in style and chance made the storyline interesting going into Week 2 of the preseason. Sanders relied on fast reads and red-zone performance, and Dart demonstrated his vertical passing game and mobility to stretch the plays.
Shedeur Sanders Stats
Shedeur Sanders threw two touchdowns and 138 yards on 14 completions in 23 attempts in a 30-10 preseason win against Carolina Panthers in Cleveland. He also chipped in 19 yards on the ground and did not turn the ball over despite feeling pressure on several dropbacks.
Analytically, Sanders was an overall pretty efficient quarterback. All of his touchdown throws were less than 10 yards in the air, but his receivers were able to maximize yards after the catch. His performance seemed reflective of the talent he had shown at Colorado and should get him in a good spot to ascend the depth chart in Cleveland in the event of injury or better performance.
Jaxson Dart Stats
Dart was called upon to replace Russell Wilson in relief for the Giants for his debut. He completed 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards, including a 29-yard TD pass. He supplemented those with 24 rushing yards on three carries, and his mobility helped him avoid pressure and extend drives.
One of his most outstanding qualities was his pocket movement, which increased the chances of him evading the edge rushers and looking down the field. His touchdown was a seam route on which he took contact as he threw the ball, a play that highlighted his toughness and NFL-readiness.
According to many draft analysts, Dart has a strong arm and is unafraid of the deep ball. This is an aspect that New York has been lacking in recent years. His arm talent and mobility could fast-track him from rookie backup to starter in the future.
Takeaways
The two quarterbacks had good opening statements, although in different fashions. Sanders provided accuracy and poise on scoring drives, whereas Dart provided an exciting combination of passing and running skills. Their different styles guarantee that they will both be followed keenly as the preseason goes on.
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