QB Breakdown and Analysis: Shrine Bowl 2025
JJ's in depth analysis of the quarterback's for the East-West Shrine Bowl for 2025
Next Thursday will mark 100 years of one of the most beloved and scouted bowl games, The East-West Shrine Bowl. The Shrine Bowl is one of the most anticipated bowl games to watch for future NFL players. This bowl really brings out the players that you weren’t typically watching into the spotlight, and will show you what they can do on the field.
Quarterbacks
Max Brosmer (Minnesota)
Minnesota quarterback Max Brosmer is a poised pocket passer with excellent leverage anticipation and coverage recognition. A former New Hampshire standout, he proved he belonged in the Big Ten, completing 66.5% of his passes for 2,828 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just six interceptions in 2024. His quick release, precision in tight windows, and low off-target percentage highlight his efficiency.
While Brosmer lacks elite arm strength and mobility, his sharp processing make him an ideal developmental backup. A strong Shrine Bowl showing could solidify his status as a reliable Day 3 investment for NFL teams seeking a smart, steady backup option.
Brady Cook (Missouri)
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook leaves a legacy as one of the program's all-time greats. With a 26-13 record as a starter, he ranks second in school history and is the first Tigers QB to surpass 9,000 passing and 1,000 rushing yards, amassing over 10,000 total yards. Cook’s dual-threat ability, football IQ, and short-area accuracy make him a reliable and versatile option for NFL teams.
While limited arm strength may cap his ceiling, Cook’s experience in a pro-style offense and decision-making suit a West Coast system emphasizing quick strikes and YAC opportunities. His mobility adds value in red-zone and short-yardage packages, giving him developmental potential as a QB2. Cook projects as a late Day 3 pick or priority UDFA with a chance to carve out a role as a dependable backup.
Kyle McCord (Syracuse)
McCord’s story might be the most unique out of this bunch of QB’s. After transferring from Ohio State, he led Syracuse to its first 10-win season since 2018 and a Holiday Bowl victory. He broke the ACC and school record with 4,779 passing yards and 34 touchdowns in 2024.
McCord’s football IQ, quick release, and ability to layer throws with precision make him an excellent fit for precision-based passing schemes like West Coast offenses with vertical elements. His deep ball accuracy and mastery of play-action mechanics stand out, making him an appealing option for teams with strong offensive infrastructure. McCord’s stock hinges on consistency during the shrine bowl and his workouts, but his sharp mental game and ball placement should secure him as a Day 2 or early Day 3 pick for the 2025 draft.
Cam Miller (North Dakota State)
Cam Miller's distinguished career at North Dakota State included two national championships and 45 wins, ranking him fourth in FCS history. His 2024 season was outstanding, with over 3,200 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, only four interceptions, and 631 rushing yards with 12 touchdowns. Miller has a career completion rate of 69.3% and more than 12,000 total yards, demonstrating his ability to excel as a dual-threat quarterback.
Miller is a high-floor, low-ceiling prospect with the mental processing and experience to step into a backup role right away. His accuracy, refined mechanics, and success in a pro-style system make him an ideal candidate for a timing-based offense that prioritizes quick concepts. While his physical characteristics might limit his long-term starter potential, his presence and demonstrated durability place him among the most pro-ready Day 3 quarterbacks.
Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
All eyes will be on Shedeur Sanders following a stellar college career at both Jackson State and Colorado. Sanders faced relentless pressure behind a struggling offensive line but still shined, posting 4,100 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024. His accolades include Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, despite being the most sacked quarterback in consecutive seasons.
With over 14,000 passing yards, 134 touchdowns, and a 70% career completion rate, Sanders thrives in short and intermediate areas, displaying advanced processing and precision.
Sanders is best suited for a timing-based offense that leverages his quick decision-making and accuracy, paired with solid protection. His combination of poise, and production makes him an intriguing early round 2 prospect with starter potential.
Payton Thorne (Auburn)
The last QB to talk about is the Auburn Tiger Quarterback Payton Thorne. He provided Auburn with veteran leadership in 2024 after transferring from Michigan State, throwing for 2,713 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and nine interceptions while adding 425 rushing yards. Over his collegiate career, he totaled nearly 9,300 passing yards and 49 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground.
His strengths include quick and accurate ball placement on short throws, solid touch on vertical routes, and his ability to see the field when plays break down. However, his tendency to throw off his back foot under pressure and rely on arm strength alone when on the move impacts his accuracy. Additionally, he often lowers his eyes and scrambles prematurely, a habit that may not translate well to the NFL.
Thorne will probably project as a developmental Day 3 pick or priority UDFA. With refinement, he could stick as a depth piece on an NFL roster.
I will catch you next time dear readers, when I will go over the other positions for the East-West Shrine bowl as well as the Senior Bowl.