With the 2023 college football season still months away from kicking off, fans were eager to watch as UTSA held its annual spring game. Starters Frank Harris, JT Clark and Zakhari Franklin are just a few of the veterans who were inactive for the spring game. 

One of the main storylines fans were watching during this game was who would win the QB2 spot. Eddie Lee Marburger is a well known fan favorite and has familiarity with Jeff Traylor’s offense. However, Owen McCown, son of longtime NFL QB Josh McCown and University of Colorado transfer, is an intriguing prospect and a potential threat to the backup spot.

On the opening drive Marbuger led the UTSA second team offense down the field with ease and capped off the drive with a touchdown pass to WR Chris Carpenter. Marburger made a number of beautiful deep throws that were dropped by his receivers. One attribute that Marburger showed off was his ability to take off and run; he also showed great pocket movement. 

Later on in the game, Marburger would complete a long touchdown off an outstanding catch from JUCO transfer WR Willie Mccoy. When McCown came into the game, he showed flashes; he’s a good athlete with a nice arm and was able to make a couple of good throws into tight windows. However, he could not get on the same page with his receivers, and his offense suffered from a lot of miscommunications and drops. 

While the spring game was mostly for the backup QBs to show off, you couldn’t help but notice RB Justin Rodriguez making plays. Rodriguez, a walk-on from the San Antonio area, scored his first career touchdown against LA Tech this past season. Rodriguez showed off excellent footwork and speed, all while not shying away from contact. Expect an expanded role for Rodriguez this upcoming season.

On the defensive side of the ball, it was hard for players to really stand out since tackling wasn’t allowed, but a few players in the secondary had some nice plays. Safety Je’Vuan Dabon had a spectacular interception that was called back due to an offsides on the defensive line. In addition, Cornerback Alpha Kahn had a few nice pass breakups. 

The game concluded with UTSA’s offense coming away with a 7-6 win. UTSA’s coaching staff has a lot to look forward to and a lot to sort out before the program begins its first season as a new member of the American Athletic Conference.