Collegiate Times

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"He's especially important on this team because you have a mobile quarterback as your No. 1 who puts himself in the position to take a few more hits than a pocket QB would," O'Cain said.

Coaches need to see what Clayton can produce at this point and, therefore, the 6-foot-2, 205-pounder has seen a lot of time on the practice field this spring.

"It's hard to learn in the classroom," O'Cain said. "When you actually get out in the field and do it, it's a totally different experience."

"It's definitely different when you're on the field," added Clayton. "You can look down at your notes in the classroom, but out on the field there's no paper."

Taylor remembers not long ago when he was in Clayton's shoes, overwhelmed by the first couple of weeks of practice.

"I know the first day was a little rough with the cadence," Taylor said. "I remember my first day. I just thought I was going to watch practice. But I was thrown into the fire. I had to go out and show what I had."

Taylor has thus begun to play an unfamiliar role for him this spring: the role of mentor. He has developed strong relationships with both Clayton and Davis.

"I'm very good friends with those guys," Taylor said. "We've always been close. It's still a competition. We come out here and compete and try to make each other better."

Taylor knows that good things are to come of the two new quarterbacks, including Clayton.

"He's making very good progression," Taylor said. "Just going out there and staying focused - that's the main thing. He just needs to go out there and play football. Just stay relaxed. Don't put any pressure on yourself."

Clayton has progressed because he has remained focused, constantly concentrating on his weaknesses more than showcasing his strengths.

"I got to work on footwork at this point," Clayton said. "Just the drop back passing and going through my reads quickly and making sure I follow through on all of my throws."

Coaches can sense that Clayton is going to get to the point of being a top-caliber quarterback; it's only a matter of time until he's ready.

"He's got a little knack about him," O'Cain said. "There's something there I like."

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