Texas State coach GJ Kinne has figured out the secret to finding consistent quarterback talent, a feat that usually breaks mid-major programs, and he’s done it with four different signal-callers. Since taking his first head coaching job at Incarnate Word, Kinne’s teams have consistently pumped out at least 35 points per game every single season, a wild stat when you consider the revolving door at QB. Now, for the first time in his career, he’s actually got a starter returning for 2026 in Brad Jackson.
Mechanics, Versatility, and a Whole Lot of Sports
So, what’s Kinne’s magic formula for quarterbacks that keep his offenses humming? He told the media recently that throwing motion is huge right off the bat. We’re talking about a smooth, quick, and compact delivery. Long deliveries? Not what he’s looking for. While stats, film, and pure competitiveness are definitely part of the equation, they’re not the only things he’s focused on. Just look at Tennessee Titans QB Cam Ward, who was a no-star recruit because he played in a Wing-T offense in high school, limiting his passing attempts. Clearly, Kinne sees past the obvious.
Another massive piece of the puzzle is versatility. Kinne loves athletes who play multiple positions on the gridiron, but even better are those who crush it in multiple sports. Think baseball, basketball, or even track and field. He says the skills from these different sports translate directly to football. Baseball, for instance, forces strategy and quick processing, which just fortifies a quarterback’s brain. And that core rotation? “Just think about when you’re batting, you’re up there in the box,” Kinne explained, getting into a batting stance. “It’s a very similar motion: hitting a baseball and throwing a football.” Seriously, it makes so much sense! Texas State freshman Easton Webb is even planning to pitch for the baseball team in the spring, while Brad Jackson himself played basketball for a year in high school and ran the 4×200 meter relay. Jackson said that relay didn’t just build speed, it built an insane competitive mentality.
The Intangibles That Make a Field General
Kinne might prefer bigger quarterbacks, but he’s not letting that be a deal-breaker. We’re in the modern era, and shorter QBs are proving they can get the job done. Of course, arm strength and accuracy are non-negotiables, and mobility is always a sweet bonus. But for Texas State’s demanding system, Kinne emphasizes leadership and processing ability above all else. He expects his quarterbacks to be super smart, able to understand defenses on the fly, and make lightning-fast decisions to drive the offense.
As we kick off the season with Brad Jackson back under center, it’ll be fascinating to see if Kinne’s unique blend of physical and mental scouting can keep the Texas State offense averaging those insane 35-plus points a game. The rest of college football might need to start taking notes on how he builds his consistent QB factory.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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