Nevada’s football program is poised for its season opener against Western Kentucky, but the Wolf Pack’s most pressing question remains who will take the first snap under center.
Coach Dave Choate has said the starting quarterback will be announced on Sunday, after a two‑week evaluation that covered 14 practices and spring training sessions.
The three candidates—Carter Jones, Luke Duncan and AJ Bianco—each bring a distinct skill set that has kept the competition tightly contested.
A Battle of Styles
Jones is celebrated for his mobility, often turning broken plays into rushing threats, whereas Duncan is viewed as a traditional pocket passer with a strong arm, and Bianco is praised for his steady decision‑making and locker‑room presence.
In a recent scrimmage, Duncan directed five red‑zone drives, hooking up on two touchdown passes, while Jones was limited to a single series, highlighting the different ways the coaches are testing each arm.
Nevada finished last season among the bottom tier of FBS teams in passing efficiency, a statistic that has driven the staff to prioritize an upgrade at quarterback as the new campaign begins.
Choate has indicated that the final call will rest with him, though input from offensive coordinator Brett Bartolone and position coaches will be factored into the decision.
The lack of a clear leader during camp reflects the differing strengths of the three quarterbacks, making it difficult to separate them on paper and forcing the staff to weigh mobility against precision and consistency.