Jackson Gutierrez is heading back to San Antonio this Saturday, but this isn’t just any trip home. This time, he’s the starting quarterback for Navy, fresh off a week where he absolutely shredded Tulsa, running the ball an unbelievable 41 times for 232 yards and three touchdowns in a 34-26 win. That’s a workload we haven’t seen from a Navy player since 2008 in carries, and his rushing yardage total was the highest since 2019. Talk about making a statement!
From Backup to the Bell Cow
Gutierrez’s path to leading the Midshipmen hasn’t been a quick one. He spent two seasons as a backup, waiting for his shot. He only got the starting gig this year because Braxton Woodson, who began the season as the No. 1 option, sprained his ankle during Navy’s second game against Florida Atlantic. Gutierrez quickly grabbed the reins. He remembers his last visit to the Alamodome for a high school playoff game back on November 25, 2023, a tough 50-27 loss to powerhouse Dripping Springs. Even then, he accounted for all of his Jay teammates’ touchdowns, with three on the ground and one through the air. He said he chose Navy for that same type of culture and camaraderie he had in high school, and now he’s leading them into battle. His first start was a grueling one, carrying 34 times for 134 yards and a touchdown in a 24-20 loss to UAB on September 25. He was sore for days, but he said his body quickly became “calloused” to the heavy workload.
The Good, The Gaffes, and the ‘Unbelievable’
UTSA coach Jeff Traylor didn’t mince words, calling Gutierrez “the most fierce competitor we’re going to play against” and “unbelievable.” That’s high praise from an opposing coach! But even with the monster numbers, Gutierrez’s performance hasn’t been spotless. He’s been tagged for two fumbles against Tulsa and two against UAB. Navy also turned the ball over on a botched option handoff against UAB, and Gutierrez threw an interception against Tulsa despite attempting only seven passes. These are definitely things that have to be cleaned up as the season progresses. Navy entered the year as one of the favorites to win the American Conference, but their 2-3 start means every game is critical.
So, what’s next for this gritty junior? Navy meets UTSA at 7 p.m. Saturday in San Antonio. Navy coach Brian Newberry said Braxton Woodson is making progress in his recovery from that ankle sprain and could even split time with Gutierrez. Will Gutierrez continue to carry this incredible load, or will Woodson’s return lighten the burden? This team has to find their stride if they want to live up to those preseason expectations, and all eyes will be on their quarterback as he heads home.
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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