Washington State Football: LB Kyle Thornton Weighs In on Starting QB Battle

Joe Londergan | Aug 3, 2024

Oct 16, 2021; Pullman, Washington, USA; Washington State Cougars linebacker Kyle Thornton (52) runs down field against the Stanford Cardinal in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. The Cougars won 34-31. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports / James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Washington State football continue fall camp in Pullman this week, with position battles raging on at a few key positions.

The Cougars' veteran leaders like linebacker Kyle Thornton aren't letting that uncertainty bother them, choosing instead to put their faith in the the entire team, regardless of the starter. For example, Thornton gave a rather diplomatic answer to a question about the battle for the starting quarterback job between John Mateer and Zevi Eckhaus.

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"Honestly, I just want to see both of them take charge," Thornton. "I think they've done a great job so far of slowly building up their roles throughout the year. It's been a great competition so far and I know it's going to keep being a great competition all fall. I know either one of them I wouldn't want to see if I was an opposing defense."

Mateer appeared in 11 games last season, throwing for 235 yards and rushing for 92 with five total touchdowns. Eckhaus was the Big South Offensive Player of the Year at Bryant University last season, ranking nationally in the FCS in total offense (296.4 yards/game) and passing touchdowns (28).

The Cougars are not expected to name a starter until the calendar gets closer to the August 31 opener against Portland State.