A game that led coach Stan Parrish to say Ball State University couldn't run or throw the ball has led to big changes to the offense.
At Monday's weekly press conference, Parrish announced that backup quarterback Tanner Justice will likely be used Saturday at Army. Previously Parrish had said he would stick with freshman Kelly Page.
"My other quarterback is very much in my plans," Parrish said. "I should have done that Saturday night. [Page] needed to come out and see things and settle down."
Against the University of New Hampshire, Ball State gained only 58 yards through three quarters.
Justice, a senior, was the backup to Nate Davis for the last two seasons. He has attempted six career passes, completing five for 54 yards. Parrish expects Justice can have the same kind of effect on Page that Joey Lynch had on Davis four years ago.
"He understands what this kid's going through," Parrish said. "[Lynch and Justice are] very cerebral guys. They're team guys."
Parrish isn't sure how the two quarterback system will work yet but said they would not alternate series. Parrish also left open the possibility of Justice starting.
"I don't know who the starter is," Parrish said. "Right now Page is going to start."
Parrish said he had not told Page that he would now have to split snaps.
"I don't really care about reactions," Parrish said. "I'm trying to do what's best for this team."
Page has struggled this season, completing 30 of his 68 attempts for 254 yards. He also threw his first career touchdown against New Hampshire and has been intercepted twice. He is playing behind an offensive line with four new starters and without senior tight end Madaris Grant.
Parrish hopes the move can help his young quarterback through the tough transition.
"The kid is really, really under the gun right now," Parrish said. "This gives us a good way to help him get through it."
Justice is not the same type of quarterback as Page. Parrish said he doesn't have as much mobility but has a good understanding of the offense.
"He knows what he isn't," Parrish said. "He's got a lot of leadership qualities."
During both of the Cardinals' games students could be heard chanting Justice's name, something that didn't surprise Parrish.
"Fans always like the backup quarterback," Parrish said. "Everyone would love us to bench the kid right now. But you've got to look long term."
In addition to the quarterback shakeup, Parrish said a few more changes were in the works for Saturday. Offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner will come down from the booth to the sideline to provide more of a leadership presence for the unit.
"We need to do a better job during the game of seeing things, doing things, communication, etc.," Parrish said. "He's excellent down there."
Faulkner's place in the coaching box will be taken by tight end's coach Kurt Mattix, who will be better able to help offensive line coach Jason Eck make blocking adjustments.
Parrish again said there could be personnel changes this week. Running back Cory Sykes is expected to get more touches and has pulled even with freshman Eric Williams on the depth chart. Right guard Kitt O'Brien should also play this weekend.
The offense has also been simplified for the young group. Parrish said he removed seven game plans.
"We've got to help the lineman," Parrish said. "We have to use our best players, a guy like Cory Sykes. He's the fastest guy on the team. This is the best plan for this group to be successful."
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
