Shawn Robinson named starting QB for TCU

Gary Patterson named Shawn Robinson the starting quarterback, during his media availability on Saturday morning. Robinson won the job over Penn transfer Michael Collins, but Patterson noted that Collins will play in TCU’s first game on September 1, against Southern.

Robinson was the backup to Kenny Hill in 2017, getting one start against Texas Tech. In that start, Robinson completed 6-17 passes for 85 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 84 yards on 10 carries.

As is typical for TCU in the midst of QB transition, Frog fans were left to guess about who would be the starter, all the way through spring ball and the first weeks of fall practice. Throughout August, both Patterson and Sonny Cumbie noted that it was a lot closer than anyone expected, because of how talented Collins is.

Collins’ arm strength is impressive, and he’s also rather mobile, but in the end it’s Robinson’s job.

Robinson, a former 4-star recruit from DeSoto, has an electric arm and incredible mobility, living into the dual-threat nature of TCU quarterbacks in recent years. His size (6-2, 228) makes him bigger than Kenny Hill and Trevone Boykin, but he’s arguably more athletic, and more accurate.

There were hints along the way that Robinson would be the guy, with the sophomore being selected to represent TCU at Big 12 media days, and taking most of the reps with the 1s in recent days, but Patterson kept his decision close to the vest until today.

Now, Robinson has a few weeks to adjust to being “the guy,” as the Frogs work to get back to the Big 12 Championship game, and hopefully make their first appearance in the College Football Playoff.