(Writer’s note: I feel your groan.)
(Writer’s note, addendum: That’s groan with an “a” not an “i,” just so we’re clear.)
Yesterday we noted that Jameill Showers, who announced he was transferring from Texas A&M last month, confirmed to a recruiting website that he had decided to transfer to UTEP to continue his collegiate playing career.
Low and behold, that’s exactly what’s happened as the Miners confirmed Wednesday night that Showers has committed to play for new head coach Sean Kugler. The school further confirmed that Showers will have two years of eligibility remaining and that the quarterback will be eligible to play in 2013.
Because Showers will graduate from A&M in a couple of months, he will not have to sit out a season as normally required by NCAA transfer rules.
“We are extremely excited to have Jameill commit to our program,” Kugler said in a statement. “He is a great quarterback and a leader with strong character. He comes from a great family with an outstanding football background.”
Suffice to say, the reason behind Showers’ transfer from the Aggies is the presence of reigning Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel, who could have three years of eligibility remaining depending on the playing course he charts for his football future.
Showers was a three-star member of A&M’s 2010 recruiting class, rated as the No. 27 pro-style quarterback in the country. While he exited spring practice last year as the front-runner for the starting job, Manziel was named the starter midway through summer camp.
Showers played in 11 games the past two seasons, including seven as Manziel’s backup in 2012. Last season, he completed 27-of-44 passes for 319 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
“He has an outstanding skill set,” Kugler said. “He has a strong arm, is quick and can make plays with his feet as well.”