Nick Schuessler: "I feel comfortable out there"

Schuessler at a recent Clemson practice

by Tony Crumpton - Assoc. Editor - Thu Aug 11 18:51:22 GMT-04:00 2016

CLEMSON - Redshirt-senior graduate student Nick Schuessler is vying for the Clemson backup quarterback position with sophomore signal-caller Kelly Bryant, redshirt freshman Tucker Israel, and talented true freshman Zerrick Cooper waiting in the wings.

Schuessler spoke to reporters after Wednesday's scrimmage where he went 12-16 for 139 passing yards.

He discussed how things are progressing for him this season.

"I just feel comfortable out there being a fifth-year senior and having some time to get some reps," Schuessler said. "I just feel a lot more comfortable out there. I was able to come off certain reads and make certain throws. I think my mental game has definitely progressed since last season."

He has been a reliable veteran as he has completed 21-33 for 230 yards (116 snaps) in 13 career games.

Schuessler understands that all the Clemson quarterbacks are fortunate to have so many different playmakers at the wide receiver position.

"It's unreal," Schuessler said. "Being a QB in this offense and having those people out there is such a luxury. There is no such thing as a bad ball. As long as you can put it within ten feet of them, they are going to make a play for you. They are doing awesome."

Schuessler believes that the freshman wide receivers have looked solid.

"They have picked up the system so well," Schuessler said. "They look real fluid. They look good."

Schuessler's understudy Zerrick Cooper has done admirably since arriving at Clemson.

"It's always impressive every year when a new QB comes in and watch them how quick they start to pick it up," Schuessler said. "Zerrick is doing unbelievable. He gets out there and is able to trust his reads, and he has a huge arm. I know you know that and make all the throws. Just to see all the progress he has made from the first day all the way to right now is awesome. We all have such a good friendly competition in there. We all have such great relationships, and we all want to see each do well. Zerrick is coming in there. He is just mixing it up. It's awesome to see go out there and make good throws. I would say he is pushing everybody."