Thoughts on Robert Johnson

* Call it Deja Vu... all over again. Robert Johnson is the starting quarterback for the Razorbacks. Again. Is he the best option for the Hogs, or the lesser of 3 evils? I believe Johnson's ascent into the top role is a direct result of the other 2 guys' situations. Casey Dick is a mess. Correction, his back is a mess. He may be back in 5 weeks, he might not come back ever. Dick cannot be counted on for any kind of contribution until he proves he is healthy and can take a hit in a real game.

As for Mitch Mustain, his situation is a little bit murky. Is he ready to start right now? Heck no. Starting him against USC would be a huge mistake. He's just not ready and that's not his fault. I think if any freshman QB could start in the SEC it would be Mitch. He has the mentality, talent, work ethic and demeanor to excel at the college level. But he needs time. Throwing him to the wolves too early could damage his pscyhe and confidence. Look what it did to Johnson.

The only question now is, how short a leash does Robert Johnson have? If he struggles against USC, will he get yanked? And will Mustain get his chance in the spotlight? It's a bizarre situation that could cause all kinds of havoc this season when you consider that Gus Malzahn's new offense depends a lot on quarterbacks making good decisions. That is something Robert Johnson struggled with in 2005.