J.J. McCarthy's Future and Cam Skattebo’s Tough Lesson

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Pushing The Odds with Matt Perrault

JJ’s Future and Cam Scatabo’s Usage Raise Questions

The question surrounding JJ is whether he has established himself as the franchise quarterback, especially with Jackson Dart on injured reserve. The Texans’ defense has been problematic despite expectations that it would be dominant, but JJ’s recent performances have strengthened his case.

The best approach is to let the season play out. If JJ continues playing at this level, the team will either have its quarterback of the future or a valuable trade asset heading into the offseason. Several teams need help at quarterback, creating multiple possibilities involving JJ, Jackson Dart and other quarterbacks around the league.

There is no upside to playing Jameis Winston. At best, he is a stopgap for this season rather than a long-term answer. His capabilities are already well established at this point in his career.

Criticism of JJ based on the defenses he has faced also overlooks the quality of his throws. The discussion should not focus solely on the matchup, but on how he looks on film. If a quarterback is relying on short passes and yards after the catch, that production can be questioned. That has not been the case with JJ’s film over the past two weeks. He has made high-level throws that can succeed against any defense when he has a clean pocket.

Cam Scatabo’s workload created another major talking point. After receiving no carries the previous week, he had 17 carries against Houston and delivered several physical runs. He also drew a penalty for lowering his head, a call that even Houston fans booed.

The previous week’s lack of carries appeared to be a benching rather than an attempt to preserve him. Harbaugh is still developing the team’s culture and used the decision to send a message. Scatabo needs to focus on his rehabilitation, avoid unnecessary extracurricular activities and stop doing backflips on stages and in the end zone.

The path forward is straightforward: protect the football, eliminate the unnecessary behavior and play well. If Scatabo does that, he can remain the team’s starting running back, position himself for a second contract and receive the attention that comes with strong performance.