Boasting elite speed and record-breaking high school stats, this dual-threat freshman is poised to revolutionize the Knights' offense while mastering Scott Frost’s explosive, mobile-driven playbook.
College Football 27 reflects Rocco Marriott's modern dual-threat abilities, as he is one of 25 young quarterbacks who have an 85-plus speed rating in the game.
X user Bubba's Sports Games posted his "Hidden Gem Fast QB" list on Thursday, featuring underclassmen players. All quarterbacks were rated 70 overall or higher -- except Kansas State's Blake Barnett -- and have 85 speed or more.
Marriott clocks in at 88 speed, 89 acceleration and 85 throw on the run. These ratings reflect his real-life skill set, which could mean a promising future for UCF's highest-ranked quarterback high school commit.
Coach Scott Frost has coached many dual-threat quarterbacks during his two tenures with the Knights. He's coached McKenzie Milton (1,078 rushing yards), Jacurri Brown (142 yards) and Cam Fancher (170 yards).
Alonza Barnett III enters the fray as the next starting quarterback, and he's rushed for 1,031 yards in the past two seasons at James Madison. Frost's offensive scheme involves read options or designed quarterback rush plays, which require a mobile quarterback.
Marriott fits that mold with his rushing ability. The former four-star rushed for 627 yards and 19 touchdowns for Platte County High School during his senior season.
His dual-threat ability played a significant role in carving out a historic high school career in Missouri. He finished with over 10,000 total yards and 160 touchdowns as a Pirate, etching his name into Missouri high school football record books.
With Barnett III as the starter for his final collegiate season, Marriott has an entire season -- plus extra reps in blowout games -- to master UCF's playbook. He took the opportunity to enroll early, come to Orlando and participate in spring camp.
The most improved aspect of his game after early enrollment is his decision-making. While Marriott dominated the high school football scene, the pace of college football is quicker and requires an adjustment period.
"Everything moves faster at this level," Marriott told reporters on May 2. "So, you don't got time to sit in the pocket and, you know, run around and make plays. Like, you got to be really firm in your technique."
Marriott's dual-threat ability will allow him to extend plays when the pocket collapses, and he needs extra time for a play to develop. Frost can also scheme designed run plays to utilize his legs without switching out to another quarterback.
At times, Brown entered the game for Jackson to execute Frost's play calls and gain yardage on the ground. Now, Barnett III will likely execute all those play calls without a sub.
The future is bright for UCF's quarterback room with Marriott learning behind a veteran. He'll aim to carry over his high school dominance to the college level and lead the Knights to a championship when he becomes the starter.
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