Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien was delighted to have the situation at quarterback

Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien was delighted to have the situation at quarterback finally coming into focus this spring. After weeks of evaluating talent, rotating reps, and observing leadership dynamics on and off the field, O’Brien expressed optimism about the trajectory of the team’s offense heading into the 2025 season.

O’Brien, who returned to the college ranks after recent stints in the NFL and as Alabama’s offensive coordinator, has brought a renewed sense of structure and energy to the Eagles program. Much of that energy has centered around the quarterback position—a critical element in O’Brien’s offensive philosophy, which relies heavily on decision-making, tempo, and adaptability.

“This is one of the most important positions not just on the field, but in the entire program,” O’Brien said during spring practice. “You need a guy who can lead, who can inspire, and who can execute under pressure. I think we’re getting closer to finding that guy.”

Coming into spring, the quarterback room was wide open. Redshirt sophomore Jacobe Robinson, transfer senior Carter Smith from Indiana, and true freshman Marcus Daniels were all vying for the starting job. Each brought a unique skill set: Robinson with his strong arm and familiarity with the system; Smith with his experience and poise; and Daniels with raw talent and athletic upside. O’Brien praised the competitive spirit each quarterback brought to the table, but it was Robinson who began to separate himself as spring progressed.

“Jacobe has really shown command of the offense,” O’Brien noted. “He’s taken big steps in understanding protections, reading defenses, and delivering the ball with confidence. The leadership is growing too—you can see guys responding to him in the huddle.”

Though O’Brien stopped short of naming a definitive starter, his comments made it clear that Robinson had the edge heading into the summer. Still, he emphasized the importance of depth and competition, stating that both Smith and Daniels would continue to play critical roles in the team’s development.

“Carter brings a steady presence and a great work ethic. He’s a guy you trust to make smart decisions. And Marcus has a bright future—he’s learning fast, and he’s got tools you can’t teach. We’re in a good place as a team having multiple guys we believe in.”

O’Brien’s experience with top-tier quarterbacks in his past coaching stops—working with names like Tom Brady, Deshaun Watson, and Bryce Young—has undoubtedly shaped his approach to managing and developing quarterbacks. He understands that finding the right player at that position can change the entire direction of a season.

With the spring game approaching, the quarterback battle remains the focal point of fan and media attention. But for O’Brien, the excitement comes from seeing the culture he’s instilling take hold.

“We’re building something here,” he said. “It starts with competition, accountability, and love for the game. I’m proud of these guys. I’m proud of the way they’re working.”

As Boston College eyes a bounce-back year, O’Brien’s satisfaction with the quarterback room is a promising sign that the Eagles could be turning the corner sooner rather than later.