NFL Draft: Breaking down the differences between Winston and Mariota

Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston (left) and Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota walk out together after finishing their workout during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 1, 2015; Pasadena, CA, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) is defended by Florida State Seminoles cornerback P.J. Williams (26) and defensive end Chris Casher (21) on a 23-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter in the 2015 Rose Bowl college football game at Rose Bowl. Oregoon defeated Florida State 59-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Mobility

This is really a difficult category to break down, since Mariota and Winston are two wildly different quarterbacks. Mariota is obviously the faster guy and can make more plays with his legs, but Winston is actually great at moving within the pocket to avoid pressure.

Mariota ran a blistering 4.52 40-yard dash at the combine and has consistently made big plays running the ball at Oregon. In his three collegiate seasons, he rushed for 2,237 yards and had 29 touchdowns on the ground. You can bet whichever team drafts Mariota will immediately incorporate some designed runs for him. He isn’t just a “mobile quarterback,” he’s a weapon as a runner and thanks to his size and speed. That should carry over to the next level.

While Mariota is certainly faster than Winston, the Florida State star is actually much better using his feet in the pocket. Winston has an innate ability to feel pressure and step up, or back to avoid it. He reminds me of Ben Roethlisberger with his ability to avoid pressure and make plays. Winston doesn’t run often, but he can get himself out of trouble using his legs, while keeping his eyes down the field. Here’s an example of what he can do. While he’s not a runner like Mariota, Winston is just as effective with his mobility.

Again, it’s really hard to compare these two in this category. Mariota is faster and a better runner, while Winston is a better scrambler while looking to pass.

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