Jonathan Smith is facing a problem most college football coaches encounter at one time or the other; Who is going to throw the football for my team? The quarterback question has been a constant for Smith, who’s entering his fourth season as head coach for Oregon State. Jake Luton, Tristan Gebbia and Chance Nolan have all played the part of signal caller during Smith’s tenure. Each brought their own skill set, but not much winning.
Now, a Colorado transfer by the name of Sam Noyer could change that pattern.
Noyer made his announcement via Twitter just four days after entering the transfer portal. The local “Super Senior” is from Beaverton, Oregon. He threw for 1,101 yards, six touchdowns and seven interceptions as the Buffalos’ starter, last season. Sam had an unusual 2019 season, moving to safety. He entered the transfer portal after it was made clear his chances to start the next season were dwindling.
The QB told CBS Sports that his move to Corvallis is all about finding opportunity. “It's not that I felt that I wasn't needed at CU, I just want a new opportunity, hopefully in Division I and even in the Pac-12 if possible, knowing that I can compete at a high level in a Power 5 conference.”
Even if Noyer doesn’t pan out to his potential, it’s a positive sign for an Oregon State team heading into fall camp with quarterback competition. Noyer’s presence will force guys like Gebbia and Nolan to improve.
There will also be pressure on freshman Sam Vidlak to shine even more.