:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52640937/637223914.0.jpg)
The quarterback position will be a definite question mark heading into the 2017 season. However, the question of who will lead the Gophers under center next season just got another possible answer. Per Joe C. of the STrib, RS Junior QB Conor Rhoda has decided to return to the Gophers this upcoming fall after talking with new head coach PJ Fleck:
Gophers quarterback Conor Rhoda is returning to the team for his fifth season. Coach P.J. Fleck met with Rhoda on Saturday and got him to stay, Rhoda said in a text message.
Rhoda, a redshirt junior who was the Gophers No. 2 QB last year behind Mitch Leidner, had been granted permission to speak to other schools about moving on as a graduate transfer.
Now, the strong-armed Rhoda will have a chance to compete for the 2017 job.
Excited to be back! Coach Fleck is going to bring this place to new heights. Row the Boat!!!!
— conor rhoda (@Crhoda_15) January 7, 2017
Per Andy Greder at the PiPress, Fleck was encouraged to seek Rhoda out by Mike Sherels and Dan O’Brien. Here’s what Rhoda had to say:
“All great stuff,” Rhoda told the Pioneer Press. “(Fleck) said he really wanted me back and that I can help achieve our goals and can compete for the starting job.”
We don’t know who the starter will be, but having some additional options at a key position is never a bad thing.