Impressive stats.
That’s the first thing that comes to mind for Cerritos (Calif.) Gahr quarterback Casey Nielsen.
Shoes being filled.
That also comes to mind for Nielsen, who took over quarterback duties from his brother, Corey Nielsen, who’s now a freshman at Hawaii.
“It’s been good, waiting behind him,” said Nielsen. “I get to see everything,see how it is, and learn. Learning from my brother was big for me. But I’m not really trying to follow in his shadow. I like to show I can play, instead of people saying look its Corey’s little brother. I want them to say ‘that’s Casey.”
Now Nielsen has the job all to himself and is putting up some eye-popping numbers.
In the pass-friendly system, Nielsen hasn’t thrown for less than 350 yards in any game. Through seven games, he’s thrown for 2,616 yards and 25 touchdowns, averaging 373 yards a game.
And like his brother, he’s spreading the wealth.
“Coming from JV to starting this year, I’m just throwing to all my receivers, letting them do all the running after the catch,” said Nielsen.
Standing 5-11, 180, and not playing varsity until this year, Nielsen’s recruitment has been a little slow, but he’s hopeful that his stellar play will net him an offer.
“I’ll get my chance,” said Nielsen. “I’ll do the best I can so someone can pick me up. I’m interest in anywhere. I’d be interested in anywhere that throws the ball.
Most quarterbacks of his size and stature, are running quarterbacks, and while Nielsen isn’t opposed to tucking and running, he’s scored three touchdowns this years, he’d rather sling it.
“I love to throw it,” said Nielsen. “If I have to run it I will, but I’m a thrower first.”
Nielsen has another shorter quarterback as a guy he watches.
“I like Drew Brees,” said Nielsen. “He’s not the tallest guy, but he’s thrown for all those yards. I definitely believe I’ll get an offer because you can’t deny production.”
Interest in Nielsen is picking up, Hawaii, Portland State and some others taking a look. But he’s taking his recruiting in stride.
“If I have to go to a JC, I will,” said Nielsen. “I might even greyshirt but I’m hopeful an offer will come.”