Furman has named Jake Garcia as their starting quarterback for the upcoming season, following his transfer from Michigan. Head coach Clay Hendrix emphasized Garcia's skill set and leadership, noting his ability to grasp the team鈥檚 offense and earn the respect of his teammates. The quarterback depth has improved with other players like Conner Ackerley, who had a standout freshman year in college football, and Nehuel Garcia, who is showing growth in his fourth year with the team. Newcomer Trey Smith, a talented freshman, is also expected to contribute, while two additional freshmen will provide depth.

By the Numbers
  • Jake Garcia threw for 1,426 yards and eight touchdowns at East Carolina in 2024.
  • Conner Ackerley passed for 2,999 yards and 30 touchdowns at Western New Mexico last season.
State of Play
  • Four quarterbacks have been competing in camp, showing noticeable improvements.
  • The team is seeing a significant shift in skill sets compared to the previous year.
What's Next

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Jake Garcia integrates into game situations, and whether the team鈥檚 upgraded quarterback lineup translates to improved performance on the field.

Bottom Line

Furman鈥檚 quarterback competition reflects a strategic change aimed at enhancing team performance. The blend of experience and new talent may provide the boost necessary to improve from last season.