PACK PRIDE: Philip Rivers vs. Russell Wilson

Sunday’s NFL game in San Diego showcased what the Wolfpack Nation has known for years: NC State has had some darn good quarterbacks throughout the years. When the San Diego Chargers hosted the defending Super Bowl Champion Seattle Seahawks, a spotlight was shined on two confident field generals with completely different playing styles. Seattle’s Russell Wilson has already experienced football’s Holy Grail during his short 3 year tenure in the NFL and Philip Rivers has had great success in some very potent offenses during his 11 seasons in the league.

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Quarterback U?

Last year no other college program could say they had 3 quarterbacks starting in the National Football League. I’m not sure if any team has ever had this happen. Admittedly, Tampa Bay Buccaneer QB Mike Glennon was probably thrown into the fire too soon and has taken a step back this year, but there are only 32 NFL starting quarterbacks in the world and Glennon was one of them. For a rookie Glennon held his own finishing last season with 19 TD’s and 9 INTS in 13 games. In fact, some observers felt the Bucs would be better served if they allowed Glennon the opportunity to grow and mature at the position this season as the starter. However, after a regime change, new coach Lovie Smith had other ideas.

“PR” as Rivers is affectionately known by Charger faithful, stands 6’5″ 228 lbs. Wilson is 5’11” and 206 lbs. Rivers is 32 years of age and Wilson is 25. Aside from their NC State pedigree there are little similarities. However, if you watched them play in college you recognize the fact that they are both the same quarterback they were in school that commanded respect and praise from opponents and teammates alike.

They both were conductors of some of the most magical offensive football one has ever laid eyes on. Red and white never looked so good. Yes I know, Russell wore the colors twice (ugh). I must admit it still irks me a little when Wisconsin continues to get the lion’s share of credit even though Wilson only played one season there versus 3 seasons and an additional redshirt year at State. In my book 4 trumps one any day of the week.

In a testament to the type character that Wilson has, he routinely refers to his college during NFL pre-game introductions as “Russell Wilson from a whole Pack of Badgers” paying homage to NC State and Wisconsin.

Likewise, Rivers has never shied away from his NC State background and like Wilson has displayed nothing but professionalism and excellent character. A lot of schools cannot say this. I wonder what Virginia Tech’s brass said behind closed doors when the Michael Vick saga was playing out. Or Miami of Ohio when Ben Roethlisberger was dealing with his 2 or 3 rape allegations.

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When at the helm for the Wolfpack, both Rivers and Wilson each possessed rare leadership abilities that allowed them to succeed at the next level. It isn’t all about talent. Both of these men also have it between the ears. GMs and coaches recognize that this is what separates the good quarterback from the great ones. If you don’t believe me watch them on the field. Of, course a lot of what a QB can do is dictated largely by what type offensive scheme or system he plays in.

However, both Rivers and Wilson display a command presence, knowledge and awareness in the direction of personnel ala Peyton Manning. Especially Rivers. The longer Wilson is in the league he too will be afforded the audible freedoms that seasoned veterans get. However, Wilson has been so good he skipped the traditional “lumps” that young QB’s take and jumped to the playoffs in his first year. Wilson won it all in spectacular fashion in his second year. After a stellar career that has been void of significant postseason success, Rivers can only hope to add a Super Bowl Championship to his repertoire. Until then we in the Wolfpack Nation will continue to cheer and appreciate the special qualities that both men provide on Sundays.

By the way, Rivers’ Chargers won the ball game 30-21. Rivers was 28 of 37 for 281 yards, 3 TD’s and no interceptions. Wilson finished 17 of 25 for 202 yards, 2 TD’s and no interceptions.

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Will current redshirt sensation Jacoby Brissett satisfy expectations and continue the trend?

NFL Quarterbacks from NC State:

Mike Glennon (2008-12)
Russell Wilson (2007-10)
Philip Rivers (2000-03)
Erik Kramer (1985-86)
Johnny Evans (1974-77)
Roman Gabriel (1959-61)

Notables:

Shane Montgomery (1987-89)
Jamie Barnette (1996-99)
Jim Donnan (1965-67)