Why Jameis Winston Is Better Than Marcus Mariota

Nov 15, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) runs out of the pocket against the Miami Hurricanes in the first half at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Hammer home the off-the-field problems all day, it still doesn’t erase a growing fact.  Jameis Winston is better than Marcus Mariota.  Now before anybody gets bent out of shape, it’s not a statement made to insult the Oregon star.  He too has worlds of talent and is far more mature but the thing about a future NFL prospect is a favorite saying of scouts and coaches:  the film doesn’t lie.

SYSTEM

Winston is only 20-years old.  People have to remember that when referencing his interception problems, but they also need to understand he’s already running a pro style offense at a high level at that age.  There is nothing pro coaches love more than getting a quarterback who  doesn’t need a complete makeover in terms of system understanding.  Mariota has made his noise in the spread attack at Oregon which has dominated opponents for years, long before he was there.  Winston could step into dozens of NFL huddles from day one and understand how things should run.

CLUTCH

Another big buzz word that scouts look for is courage under fire.  How does the quarterback perform with his back to the wall?  In that category it’s really no contest.  Jameis Winston has made a habit of huge comebacks all season, even dating back to his epic rally over Auburn in the national title game last year.  He pulled off yet another one in Week 11, guiding FSU to a 30-26 escape of Miami after trailing 23-10 at halftime.  Whatever gene a quarterback needs to keep his cool and execute despite overwhelming pressure, Winston has it.  Conversely, while Mariota is undefeated in bowl games, he’s also blown a number of opportunities to get his team to a national title.

LEADERSHIP

That sort of success (or failure) often comes as a result of leadership.  Having a great leader at quarterback is often what defines champions.  Marcus Mariota, for all his amazing abilities, has been questioned for his ability to command a huddle given his somewhat quiet and soft-spoken nature.  By contrast, Winston is visibly animated during games, talking with coaches and teammates and always letting his enthusiasm show.  There is no question who is in charge on that field.

If this were a straight physical talent comparison, then yes Mariota would have a slight edge.  He’s faster than Winston and has a slightly better arm.  However, this is about who is the better quarterback.  In such arguments it must go beyond physical skills to the intangibles mental and emotional fortitude.  When combining everything together, Winston stands alone at the top.