Gus Malzahn addresses how freshman Malik Willis fits into QB picture this season
Auburn has its starting quarterback in Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham and an experienced backup in Sean White, last year’s starter. So where does that leave Malik Willis, the early enrollee out of Atlanta?
Malzahn acknowledged Monday that the ideal scenario is Willis redshirting, waiting to start his four years of eligibility until he can be a significant contributor. Knowing that Stidham or White could get injured at any time, however, Malzahn wants Willis to prepare as if he’ll play this fall.
“I think in a perfect world, we would (redshirt Willis),” Malzahn said, per Michael Niziolek of Auburn Undercover. “We’re not really thinking that way, in case you have one injury that changes everything. So he will continue to be with the offense and get reps and everything with that. Like I said, you can never have enough quarterback depth, as we’ve found the last few years so we’ve got to get him ready.”
Malzahn has been impressed with Willis’ progress in his first year on campus.
“(Offensive coordinator) Chip (Lindsey) really challenged him after spring and he’s answered the bell,” Malzahn said. “We feel very good about him.”