Florida State University (FSU) is about to witness the arrival of a true gunslinger in the form of Malachi Marshall, a quarterback with a live arm and a creative flair. This JUCO QB is set to ignite the field with his unique style of play.
Marshall, a 6-foot-2, 170-pound prospect, showcased his talent at South Pointe High in Rock Hill, S.C., where he amassed over 4,100 passing yards and 36 total touchdowns in his final two seasons. His journey continued at Stony Brook, where he played as a true freshman, and then transitioned to Iowa Western CC, leading them to a national championship with an impressive 33:8 TD-to-interception ratio.
But here's where it gets interesting: Marshall's strengths lie in his fearless approach, whipping the ball with high velocity and accuracy, especially on the run. He's a quick-thinking playmaker, adept at avoiding pressure and delivering precise passes. However, his build may present challenges, as he might struggle against interior pressure and could be more susceptible to hard hits.
The Gus Malzahn system might not be the perfect fit for Marshall, as it favors a stronger running game. Yet, Marshall's ability to stretch the field vertically and his quick release could unlock new possibilities. With a 247Sports Grade of 86 and a Composite Grade of 0.8600, Marshall is set to compete for the QB2 spot at FSU, offering an exciting prospect for the future.
And this is the part most scouts might miss: Despite his physical limitations, Marshall's arm talent and improvisational skills suggest he has the potential to start in the coming years. His ability to generate velocity and attack various areas of the field make up for his height and build concerns.
FSU's decision to bring in Marshall is a calculated risk, one that could pay off handsomely. As we eagerly await his transition to the FBS level, one question lingers: Will Marshall's unique skill set be enough to overcome the challenges he'll face in the pocket?
