It’s been nearly a week since USF quarterback Byrum Brown was knocked out of the game at Tulane with some sort of leg injury. There have been no updates on Brown since then, and since the Bulls have an open date, it could be next week before we hear anything.
Or, it could go right up the kickoff of the October 11 game at home against Memphis.
As much as we’d all like to know what’s going on, I understand why head coach Alex Golesh, his staff, and players are keeping mum. Because of the open date, they didn't hold their customary media briefings throughout the week.
They’re trying to get ready for what essentially is a must-win game against the preseason American Athletic Conference favorite. It’s to USF’s advantage to keep the Tigers guessing about the most important offensive position as long as possible.
I’m a classically trained reporter/columnist and it was my job to hold public officials accountable, especially if they kept secrets from the people paying their salaries. This is a different situation, though.
While we’re allowed to know details of how much money Golesh is paid, I can’t file a Freedom of Information request for his next game plan. It’s up to him to decide how much he wants to say about his starting quarterback – even if it’s nothing at all.
It is completely understandable why someone whose job is to win football games would play it that way.
Brown was on multiple preseason watch lists heading into this year after his electric freshman season. While he has played very well at times, he has also struggled with passing accuracy – especially on deep throws.
He also seems to be holding the ball too long in the pocket at times, resulting in sacks or hard hits from onrushing defenders. It could be because his receivers aren’t getting open, but whatever the reason there is a spontaneity on offense that’s missing this season.
Last year he was quick to take off when he sensed a play was breaking down, often resulting in huge gains. He hasn’t done that as much this season, possibly because his coaches wanted him to stay in the pocket more.
That brings us back to the upcoming Memphis game.
Brown was seen wearing a protective walking boot on the sidelines after leaving the Tulane game. I would guess that means some sort of ankle or foot injury, which actually would be good news. The way his knee bent on the hit that put him out of the game, my initial thought was a severe injury followed by season-ending surgery.
We all hope that’s not the case, and that with the extra time between the Tulane and Memphis game, maybe Brown can play. If not, backup Bryce Archie would likely start, and we might see Izzy Carter too.
Of course, I’m just guessing.
And if Golesh says the starting quarterback will be a game-time decision, Memphis coaches can spend next week guessing, too.