With Emory Williams gone, 6-foot-6 gunslinger Judd Anderson battles Luke Nickel to secure the depth chart's second spot and provide insurance for star transfer Darian Mensah.
Miami, FL. – The Miami Hurricanes enter a third consecutive year of acquiring a top-market transfer portal quarterback with expectations of leading the team in contention. After delivering an ACC Football Championship with the Duke Blue Devils, the first since 1989, redshirt junior Darian Mensah joins the program and looks to deliver a similar impact. He completed 334 of 500 passes, 66.8 completion percentage, leading the Atlantic Coast Conference by throwing for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns, plus six interceptions, starting in all 14 games.
Mensah is the Hurricanes’ clear starter, but every season carries a level of uncertainty. The team needs to be prepared for every situation possible, including having a reliable backup quarterback. After three years with the program, Emory Williams entered the transfer portal and found a new home with the East Carolina Pirates. The departure of the former three-star recruit will reshape the Hurricanes’ depth chart at the position, including a new backup.
After several spring practices, including an exhibition game, redshirt sophomore quarterback Judd Anderson could emerge as a strong candidate. He appeared in only one game in 2024, then didn’t play this past season, serving primarily on the practice squad. Anderson got a few snaps during the open spring game, including a deep pass to freshman wide receiver Vance Spafford.
The Georgia native brings a unique frame to the Hurricanes’ quarterback room, listed at 6-6, the tallest among the position, and weighs 230 pounds.
Anderson was a three-star recruit coming from Warner Robins High School, a public institution located in Houston County. He has an athletic background, playing both football and basketball. As a junior on the field, Anderson completed 144 of 255 passes, 56.5 completion percentage, throwing for 1,776 yards and 15 touchdowns in 11 games. However, interceptions were an issue, totaling 13 by the end of the season.
Anderson chose the Hurricanes over a few powerhouse programs: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Ole Miss Rebels, and Pitt Panthers. He was primarily recruited by offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson.
Despite no guarantees of playing for the upcoming season, the redshirt sophomore will have an opportunity to learn under Mensah, who has found success within the ACC, looking to expand nationally.
Anderson competes with redshirt freshman Luke Nickel for the backup quarterback slot. Either one could cut the Hurricanes’ latest quarterback trend. However, Anderson’s unique frame and arm could intrigue the program in the foreseeable future.
The official depth chart has yet to be revealed, but both will continue competing when fall camp opens.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Hurricanes News: