Chattanooga Mocs Face Quarterback Dilemma Ahead of 2025 Season
Chattanooga, TN – The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Mocs are confronting a significant challenge as they prepare for the 2025 college football season. With the graduation of senior quarterback Chase Artopoeus, head coach Rusty Wright is left assessing the team’s quarterback roster, which currently only includes one scholarship player, junior Luke Schomburg.
Who is Affected?
The main figure affected by this situation is Luke Schomburg, who is now positioned as the leading candidate to fill the quarterback role. His potential competition is uncertain, as the coaching staff is actively seeking a new quarterback but is not rushing the process. The Mocs also have two walk-on players, sophomore Matthew Clemmer and redshirt freshman Battle Alberson, adding to their options. However, the focus remains on finding a more competitive player who can make a substantial impact.
What are the Challenges?
Wright highlighted the unique challenges of finding a suitable quarterback in the current college football landscape. With the transfer portal opening soon, there is an abundance of players looking for new opportunities. Wright stated, “There are more starting quarterbacks out there than there ever has been that are trying to find a place to go.” He explained that while many players are available, ensuring they fit well with the program involves examining various factors, including academic eligibility and transfer credits.
When is the Transfer Portal Opening?
The transfer portal officially opens on December 11, 2024, creating a critical timeframe for the Mocs to identify and recruit potential quarterbacks. Wright emphasized that the process is not as straightforward as it may seem, stating, “It’s difficult (to find the right guy). There’s a lot more to it than this guy’s in it and you can take him.”
Why is Finding a Quarterback Urgent?
The importance of swiftly finding a quality quarterback lies in the team’s overall needs. Over the past couple of seasons, the Mocs experienced success with previous transfers like Preston Hutchinson and Artopoeus, who contributed greatly to their performance on the field. Losing Artopoeus, who amassed remarkable stats, including 4,633 yards and 31 touchdowns, poses a challenge and necessitates a strong successor.
Exploring Further Needs of the Team
Besides the quarterback position, the Mocs are also addressing several other needs as they head into the off-season. Following the loss of 13 seniors and some key players to the portal, they are prioritizing:
- Offensive Line: With only right tackle Dave Monnot graduating, improvement in this area is necessary, as their running game averaged a disappointing 3.4 yards per carry.
- Running Back: Losing Reggie Davis, who led the team with 850 yards, leaves a gap that may require the Mocs to recruit two transfers alongside new prep signee T.J. Worthy.
- Edge Rusher: The defense struggled significantly, recording just 20 sacks in total. New talent is vital to restore the pass rush that UTC is well-known for.
- Linebacker: Losing leading tackler Alex Mitchell to graduation creates a need for additional depth and skill in this position.
- Receiver: While some returning seniors are promising, the departure of leading receiver Sam Phillips necessitates competition for the vacant position.
Looking Ahead
As the transfer portal opens, the Mocs coaching staff will be busy identifying players that can fill these vital positions. With a clear understanding of their needs and the current landscape of college football, there’s hope that Chattanooga will recruit talent that fits well within their system. The Mocs aim to make a mark in the upcoming season, and finding the right players will be key to their success.
