Despite criticism, Aidan Chiles deserves patience as QB1

For what feels like the sixth week in a row, some Michigan State fans are clamoring for a fresh look at quarterback. Despite turnovers, sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles needs to remain at the helm.

I think the turning point for some fans came after Chiles’ game-ending interception on the road against Boston College. After playing Ohio State and Oregon, two teams currently ranked in the top three, the voices previously whispering for grad-transfer quarterback Tommy Shuster have crescendo’d.

Don’t get me wrong, Schuster is a great backup option. Coming over from the FCS to play his final year for a home-state team, Schuster has played solid in limited snaps. 

In a game-manager style, he’s shown command of the offense, although mostly in garbage-time situations. His experience shows with his quick decision-making. Personally, I think he is easily the best backup quarterback in the state, potentially the second best overall passer in Michigan, but that doesn’t mean he should get the starting nod.

After three quick wins, did Michigan State football fans change their expectations for this season?

Whenever I talk with folks about the 2024 season, I’ve always said that Michigan State is essentially playing with house money.

Let’s not forget everything that’s occurred within the program the last 12ish months:

1. Head coach fired amidst scandal
2. Program instability for 10 straight games
3. New staff hired in December

Coming into this season, this football program wasn’t expected to do… literally anything. Vegas expected them to win four games. There was no expectation to compete for the Big Ten or a College Football Playoff berth, or even make a dang bowl game.

In the offseason, one could argue the best quarterback in the portal found a home in East Lansing. Although young, everybody and their brother could see the upside for Aidan Chiles. There are plays he makes that rival any other player in the entire country. 

Justin Thind with a great example here:

42 air-yards from Aidan Chiles in the face of pressure, off the back foot. No more than 5% of QBs in college football can make this throw.

Also, that’s true freshman WR Nick Marsh beating Jabbar Muhammad on the other end.

(Also: zero INT-worthy throws from Chiles vs Oregon.… pic.twitter.com/UXkqzyKi7p

— Justin Thind (@JustinThind) October 9, 2024

‘Hey man, that’s great and all but these turnovers significantly outweigh Aidan Chiles’ potential’

This is the only spot where I agree with the Schuster-truthers. Some of the Chiles’ turnovers are unacceptable. Fumbling on the goal line? Unnecessarily throwing into double coverage to end the game? Those mistakes need to be fixed.

Here is where my opinion differs. I welcome these turnovers.  

Why?

There is no greater teacher than live reps.

The best analogy I can think of is Peyton Manning’s start to his NFL career. No, I am not comparing Chiles to one of the best quarterbacks to ever walk the earth. However, I am comparing the situations.

Manning threw 28 (!!) interceptions his rookie year. He played in all 16 games. The Colts went 3-13 that year. The Colts didn’t bench him. They leaned into the mistakes. They gave him time to learn in live scenarios because they knew the potential was there (first overall pick). Fast forward to year 2, Manning throws for 4,100 yards, 26 touchdowns, and is selected to the Pro Bowl. The Colts finished 13-3.

Let’s say the coaching staff was to bench Chiles and start Schuster. Tommy takes all the live reps, maybe leads you to the Guaranteed Rate Bowl, and then graduates. All while Chiles is stuck reading a book the whole season. The entire cycle would just restart in 2025.

Here’s what I’m trying to say

Michigan State football had no expectations coming into 2024. Start your young, high-potential quarterback so he can learn in live game situations. The program will be far better off in future years with an elite, well-developed, and experienced quarterback.

Again, despite the the mistakes, Aidan Chiles needs to be QB1 for the entire season and he deserves patience.