Jacolby Criswell reveals mindset in the heat of UNC quarterback competition

North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Jacolby Criswell is battling it out with Drake Maye for the starting spot in the upcoming 2022 season. And despite the two going head to head in practice to replace Sam Howell, Criswell revealed that the competition is more about the overall well-being of the team, revealing the mindset the duo has in common.

“Just by going to film every single day. Making sure I’m on top of my stuff and doing what I’m supposed to do, to better the team. Coach has been harping on this since Sam left, being a vocal leader,” said Criswell. “So just talking to the guys every day. Making sure we’re getting our throwing in at least three or four times a week, those type of things. Just making sure the team knows that me and him are both capable. Because if one of us isn’t capable and ends up going in there, the whole team chemistry is messed up. So we’re just making sure we’re on top of our stuff, making sure we’re supposed to do what we’re supposed to do to better ourselves and the team.”

Criswell and Maye compete off the field

Criswell revealed that not only are the two competitive on the field but off the field in subtle ways. The two quarterbacks enjoy competing against each other and various different ways one of which is seeing who can be the first one to practice and workouts. 

“Just the competitive aspect of showing up 30 minutes before workout; before anyone else does. Those type of little things,” he revealed. “The majority of people won’t know that you’re there first, but you know that you’re there first. So it’s that type of thing.”

Both quarterbacks were on the roster last season and saw some game action. Criswell had 21 pass attempts completing 13 of them for 179 yards and a touchdown. Maye had ten pass attempts completing seven of them for 189 yards and a touchdown. As of now, North Carolina head coach Mack Brown has yet to name a starter but has hinted at doing so once the team comes back after the summer. Regardless of which quarterback ends up winning the position, it appears as if they both are doing what they can to better the team along with themselves.