The Wyoming Cowboys football team reviewed its quarterback situation during the recent spring season, according to a May 6 announcement. Head coach Jay Sawvel made changes to the offensive staff and brought in new talent after last season’s struggles with passing and quarterback mobility.
This update is significant as it marks a shift in the team’s approach following a challenging previous year. The hiring of Buffalo Bills assistant Christian Taylor as offensive coordinator and the addition of William & Mary transfer Tyler Hughes aim to improve performance on offense.
During the spring game, Hughes threw a 47-yard touchdown pass and had a notable 45-yard run. Safety Brooklyn Cheek said of Hughes’ performance, “It’s hard to stop him, that’s what I saw. There was the one play where he’s running down the sideline and a quarterback isn’t usually moving as fast as DBs and safeties, but he’s running and he talks after he plays. That’s what I love about him; he’s a scrappy guy who loves football. Great player.” Last season at William & Mary, Hughes passed for 2,330 yards with 20 touchdowns and three interceptions while rushing for 670 yards and scoring eleven touchdowns.
Sawvel challenged his team by giving the defense an early lead in the spring game; improved quarterback play allowed the offense to take over by halftime. Mason Drube also performed well, completing eleven out of sixteen passes with one touchdown throw. Offensive coordinator Taylor said about Drube: “Mason is really sharp and intelligent, he has really good football instincts and a good feel for the game. He has caught onto the offense very quickly.” Taylor also commented on Hughes’ development: “I think Tyler is continuing to expand his knowledge of the offense and football as a whole. I’m very pleased with their progress there.”
Looking ahead, Landon Sims will return from injury this August to join Drube and Hughes in competition for playing time at quarterback. Incoming freshman Taylor Hasselbeck will add further depth this summer. Sawvel said about Hasselbeck: “Taylor did an excellent job recruiting other players in this class… I really appreciate Taylor and what he does and what he will be as a Cowboy.” Sawvel summarized his satisfaction with his quarterbacks: “I’m happy with that group right now. They’re uber competitive and they pick it up really well and Coach Taylor does a great job with them.”
