Monday, December 20, 2021

2022 NFL Draft QB Bailey Zappe

Scouting Reports:

Western Kentucky:  https://wkusports.com/sports/football/roster/bailey-zappe/3897



Articles:

2022 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Quarterbacks (7. BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY (BIG BOARD RANK: 107):  Zappe broke the record for passing yards and passing touchdowns in a season during his only year of FBS play. The NFL will be quite a steep transition, though, as Zappe was under pressure on just 12% of his dropbacks last season.) (4-22-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-rankings-quarterbacks-kenny-pickett-matt-corral-sam-howell-malik-willis

3 Late-Round Quarterbacks for Lions to Target in 2022 Draft (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Zappe is far from the biggest guy in this year's quarterback class (6-foot-1, 220 pounds), and he doesn't offer a high degree of athleticism.  However, he did prove to be a game-changer at the collegiate level, albeit at a non-Power Five school in Western Kentucky.   He finished the 2021 season with FBS all-time single-season high marks in both passing yards (5,987) and passing touchdowns (62). He also threw just 11 interceptions, and completed 69.2 percent of his passes.   He was nothing short of spectacular, and for his efforts, he was named first-team All-Conference USA, and was awarded the conference's Most Valuable Player award.   Despite all the success and accolades, there is question regarding whether his game will translate to the next level. For that reason, he is a late-round prospect.   However, it still wouldn't hurt the Lions to give the prolific college passer a look on Day 3 of the draft.) (4-20-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/three-late-round-quarterbacks-for-lions-to-target-in-2022-draft

2022 Detroit Lions Draft preview: GM Brad Holmes faces huge decision at quarterback (Mid-late round options: Western Kentucky’s Bailey Zappe, Western Michigan’s Kaleb Eleby, Notre Dames’ Jack Coan, Kansas State’s Skylar Thompson.  If the Lions are looking for a Goff replacement, it’s bad business to look beyond the first and second rounds, but they do have a potential long-term need at backup with Boyle and Blough only on one-year deals. So don’t rule out a late quarterback sometime in this draft.  Zappe, too, was on the Lions’ Senior Bowl team and had one phenomenal season in college, throwing for 62 (!) touchdowns and nearly 6,000 yards. He probably lacks the physical traits to be a starting NFL quarterback, but his intelligence for the game could be an asset in team meetings.) (4-18-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/4/18/23030009/2022-detroit-lions-draft-preview-quarterback-options

2022 NFL Draft quarterback rankings: Will Kenny Pickett or Malik Willis be drafted first? (7. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Zappe was capital-P Prolific for the Hilltoppers last fall. His 5,967 passing yards set the FBS record, as did his 62 passing touchdowns.  A look at some of the other names on that leaderboard paint a cautionary tale despite his resume; BJ Symons, Graham Harrell, Anthony Gordon, and David Klingler were all responsible for epic seasons in pass-first offenses who found little success in the NFL. Zappe’s best comparison could be fellow 6’1 QB who threw for more than 5,600 yards twice at Houston: Case Keenum.  Like Keenum, Zappe goes whole-hog with his throws, taking risks with a capacity for big payoffs. And, like Keenum, he’s being dinged for his lack of next-level arm strength. But Zappe performs well under pressure, steps up in the pocket to make throws despite impending hits, and generally did everything you could have asked of him at WKU. He might not pan out, but he’s worth a shot.) (4-12-22):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-quarterback-rankings-kenny-pickett-malik-willis

2022 NFL Draft: The top 11 quarterbacks (8
Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky (Height: 6’1″ (10th)  Weight: 215 (30th), 40-Yard Dash: 4.88 seconds (33rd), Vertical Jump: 30 inches (33rd), Broad Jump: 9’1″ (32nd), 3-Cone Drill: 7.19 seconds (34th), 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.40 seconds (38th)):  Bio: Bailey Zappe put up big numbers for Victoria East High School in Texas, throwing for 3,770 yards and 37 touchdowns as a senior. However, that translated to just one scholarship offer, and he enrolled at Houston Baptist where he spent his first four collegiate years.  After redshirting as a freshman, Zappe took over as the team’s starting quarterback in 2018, throwing for 2,822 yards and 23 touchdowns that year. Zappe improved on those numbers in 2019, throwing for 3,811 yards and 35 touchdowns. During the shortened COVID-19 season in 2020, Zappe hit on 65.6% of his throws for 15 touchdowns and just a single interception, in only four games of action.  When offensive coordinator Zach Kittley took the same job with Western Kentucky, Zappe followed him as a graduate transfer. What resulted was one of the most prolific seasons from a passer in FBS history, as Zappe completed 69.3% of his passes for 5,697 yards and 62 touchdowns. He was named the Conference USA Most Valuable Player at the end of the season.  Stat to Know: Zappe’s passing yards and touchdowns set FBS records, with the 62 passing touchdowns eclipsing a mark set by Joe Burrow in 2019.  Strengths: If you believe in the idea that the more reps one has in college translates well to NFL success, then Zappe might be your QB1. Over the course of his college career Zappe attempted nearly 2,000 passes, as he attempted 687 last season alone and 1,897 over his career. Zappe brings a wealth of in-game action to the table as a prospect.  Zappe is a creative passer, who finds ways to solve problems post-snap with touch, trajectory and placement. As someone who believes that the ability to diagnose and throw against leverage is a must in the modern NFL game, Zappe checks that box with flying colors. Take this throw from last season.  Zappe puts this throw in the perfect spot, leading the receiver away from the cornerback while navigating the threat underneath posed by the second-level defender.  This completion against Florida Atlantic is another prime example of Zappe identifying the nearest leverage threat and solving the problem it poses with placement.  WKU dials up a vertical concept on this play, and Zappe targets the wheel route from the inside receiver. But he also knows that the safety is lurking to the inside, so he turns this into more of a back-shoulder throw, giving his receiver a chance to protect himself while securing the throw.  Weaknesses: Zappe does not have an elite arm, and throws towards the boundaries and deep downfield often require more loft, or need to be delivered with upper-tier anticipation. Zappe also played in near-perfect conditions, as the Western Kentucky offensive line protected him rather well. According to charting data, Zappe was pressured on just 12.5% of his plays last year.  Where this comes into view is on the plays where he was pressured, and how he handled them. When facing pressure in the pocket, whether through the interior or off the edges, Zappe’s footwork and accuracy suffered. If he can clean this up, he stands a better chance at success in the face of the pressure NFL defenses will bring to bear.  Conclusion: If nothing else, as we get into this portion of the draft class Zappe offers that “long-term backup/spot starter” profile that teams value on Day Three. Every draft cycle has at least one or two of those players, and this year it is Zappe who fits that billing. Teams with an entrenched starting quarterback, but looking to upgrade behind him, will look in his direction as Day Three unfolds.  Comparison: Watching Zappe reminds me of Taylor Heinicke, a comparison that has been common this draft cycle.) (4-4-22):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/best-draft-quarterbacks-malik-willis-desmond-ridder-kenny-pickett-nfl-draft/

Monson: Ranking the top six quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft (FAVORITE MID-ROUND BACKUP OPTION: BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY:  Zappe just looks like a classic career backup quarterback. He’s a player with marginal NFL tools but was undeniably productive at the college level and may have enough mental traits to stick around as a backup. He posted an 87.8 PFF grade this past season for Western Kentucky, also having graded well in his previous two seasons for Houston Baptist University in the FCS every time PFF charted them. Zappe’s 48 big-time throws led the nation last year, eight more than any other player.) (4-1-22):   https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-quarterbacks-2022-nfl-draft-monson

2022 NFL Draft Board: Quarterbacks (7. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky--An incredibly prolific passer from an up-tempo, shotgun spread offense, Zappe is the most consistent passer from the pocket in this class. He has excellent touch and velocity to hit receivers in stride at the short and intermediate levels. Better arm than he’s credited for, but it’s average unless he labors to put some extra mustard on deeper throws. Comes from an intricate, fast-paced passing offense that he had complete mastery of, one that doesn’t translate easily to a lot of NFL systems. Accuracy is good but not always pinpoint, especially on out-breaking routes. Not very mobile and undersized, a rough combination. Looked unimpressive during Senior Bowl week, couldn’t adapt quickly to better talent and different offense. Has a solid chance to be the next Case Keenum in a Shanahan/Kubiak derivative scheme. 5th-6th round.) (3-31-22):  https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3449/2022-NFL-Draft-Board-Quarterbacks

Western Kentucky Pro Day 2022: Date, prospects, rumors, and more (Bailey Zappe, QB:  5,967 passing yards. 62 touchdowns. Just let those numbers sink in for a second. Bailey Zappe has ripped up the record books in just one season at the FBS level. The former Houston Baptist passer was a sensation for the Hilltoppers this season. However, behind the gaudy production and record-breaking statistics, there lies a genuine NFL Draft quarterback prospect.  Zappe impressed me with his mental fortitude as much as his exceptional statistics. He’s capable of making pre- and post-snap adjustments, reading the game at a high level. He’s cool and composed in the pocket, making sensible decisions as a passer. At the Western Kentucky Pro Day, we’ll be looking to see if they dial in some deep passes for Zappe to showcase his arm strength, an area not quite at the level of some other prospects in the class.) (3-31-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/western-kentucky-pro-day-2022-date-prospects-rumors-more/

Top 10 Quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft: Malik Willis paces the field ahead of Kenny Pickett and Sam Howell (8. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Look, Bailey Zappe saw a ton of historic success in the 2021 season. He transferred from Houston Baptist to Western Kentucky and broke Joe Burrow’s single-season records for passing yards and touchdowns in one fewer game. Zappe threw the ball 686 times to do so, but the fact remains he totaled 5,967 passing yards and 62 touchdowns through 14 games.  Zappe clearly raised the bar, and he proved that he didn’t only succeed at HBU because he played against lesser competition. He also showed during the offseason circuit that he has plenty of arm strength, hitting the second-fastest mark at the Senior Bowl. He can hit all levels of the field and truly changed the way we evaluate Air Raid quarterbacks.  However, it wasn’t all perfection last year for Zappe’s evaluation. His accuracy was questionable when he was moved off his spot. His projection in the NFL obviously changes his schematics from his college career, so there’s also a developmental gap he’ll have to overcome. Yet, he has everything else and proved to be capable of elevating his cast. Zappe will be an NFL-caliber quarterback soon — just not tomorrow.) (3-31-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-quarterbacks-in-the-2022-nfl-draft-kenny-pickett-matt-corral-continue-their-ascension/

Lions 2022 NFL draft: A quarterback for every round (5th round: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky - Zappe is the third QB the Lions coached in Mobile at the Senior Bowl. His prolific passing numbers at Western Kentucky and Houston Baptist before the transfer are eye-popping. Zappe has immaculate ball placement and pinpoint accuracy on both short and intermediate passes, consistently putting the ball exactly when and where it needs to be in the intricate spread offense he ran in college.  There are size and arm strength limitations with Zappe that were very evident in the Senior Bowl practices. His average athletic traits and the gimmicky feel of his college offensive system are legit obstacles Zappe must overcome.) (3-25-22):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2022-nfl-draft-qb-prospect-for-each-round-willis-corral-howell-eleby-coan-scouting-reports/


2022 NFL Draft: Mid-round quarterbacks to know (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky - Zappe transferred from Houston Baptist in December of 2020. He followed his head coach, Zach Kittley, and wide receivers Jerreth and Josh Sterns and Ben Ratzlaff to Western Kentucky. During the 2021 season, he threw 62 touchdowns in comparison to just 11 interceptions.  Zappe's strengths are pretty comparable to the prospect who began the list. Like Coan, he throws with great touch and anticipation and shows good pocket awareness. Unlike Coan, he is calm under pressure. He shows great control of the offense but bounces a bit too much in the pocket. His tape shows a prospect with average arm strength, but metrics from the Senior Bowl suggested that his velocity was up there with some of the best in the class. At just over 6-foot tall, he does not possess ideal size. He could go Day 2 but is more likely to go early Day 3.) (3-9-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-carson-strong-jack-coan-among-middle-round-quarterback-options-to-consider/

NFL Combine results: 8 standouts from the quarterback group (Bailey Zappe (Western Kentucky, 6-foot-0 1⁄2, 215) found the accuracy he was missing at the Senior Bowl and looked more like the player who put up record numbers in college this season.) (3-4-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/3/4/22961165/nfl-combine-results-8-standouts-quarterback-group

NFL Combine takeaways: Malik Willis, Kenny Pickett, Desmond Ridder star in QB workouts for 2022 draft (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky (6-0 1/2, 215 pounds, 9 3/4-inch hands):  Zappe was prolific throwing in a spread attack in college. He is used to making all the throws, but between the measurements, limited athleticism and inconsistency with passing, he needs to do a lot of work to earn consideration as an NFL starter. Zappe does have the makeup to be a long-term backup and there is some developmental intrigue, but he's a late third-rounder at best, a mid-fifth-rounder at worst.) (3-4-22):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-results-2022-draft-quarterback-workouts-malik-willis-kenny-pickett-desmond-ridder/t20uzy4dmdyynegm8y1kn8wa

Why record-setting QB Bailey Zappe smiles when clearing up ‘misconception’ ahead of NFL draft (3-3-22):  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2022/03/03/bailey-zappe-nfl-draft-combine-quarterback-western-kentucky/9355245002/

2022 NFL combine: Let’s meet some later-round QBs for the Detroit Lions ahead of on-field drills (Bailey Zappe is an interesting name to watch after Detroit’s staff spent the week coaching him at the Senior Bowl. Zappe called the opportunity to work with an NFL coaching staff in that environment a dream-making moment. The Western Kentucky quarterback put up numbers straight out of a video game before arriving in Mobile. The NCAA record-breaker threw for 5,967 yards with 62 (!) touchdowns and only 11 interceptions on a ridiculous 687 passing attempts in 2021. Zappe doesn’t add much of anything on the ground. Still, it’s hard to ignore that type of production at any level against any competition.  “There’s kind of a misconception about the air raid and the air raid that we ran with coach (WKU offensive coordinator) Kittley,” Zappe said. “We did a lot of stuff a lot of people do in the NFL and other offenses in college. We did a lot of peer progression stuff. He gave me a lot of opportunities, checking out plays and reading defenses, peer progressions, you know, some of the stuff that would carry over to the NFL. We did a lot of that stuff.  “Yeah, I don’t think there’s a single quarterback in history that wouldn’t want to throw 680 times in a season. It’s amazing. Coach Kittley gave me, like he said, keys to a Lamborghini. I was able to check in and out of plays, whatever I saw fit, whatever I saw the defense was doing. And I think how that translates to the NFL is just a knowledge of the game in part. Being able to read defenses, be able to see what the defense sees. What the defense is in pre-snap. And I think that will continue to help me throughout my career in the NFL and just recognizing what the defense is doing against us.”  ESPN’s Mel Kiper ranks Zappe as the seventh-best quarterback. Pro Football Focus ranks him seventh among signal-callers and 99th among all prospects. He’s behind those five names in the mix for Round 1, not to mention Nevada’s Carson Strong.) (3-2-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/03/2022-nfl-combine-lets-meet-some-later-round-qbs-for-the-detroit-lions-ahead-of-on-field-drills.html

6 Quarterbacks for Lions to Watch at NFL Scouting Combine (Western Kentucky's Bailey Zappe:  Maybe you haven't heard of Zappe yet, but I have a funny feeling you're going to hear his name on Sundays one day.  The Western Kentucky product likely won't be a game-changing talent at the next level, due to a limited ceiling and mediocre size (6-foot-1, 220 pounds) and athleticism.  However, his knack for being accurate and for having a strong understanding of the offense he's leading provide him with a legit chance to be an NFL franchise's starter in 2023.  And who knows, maybe it'll be for the Lions.) (2-26-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/six-quarterbacks-for-lions-to-watch-at-scouting-combine


2022 NFL combine: Detroit Lions staring down crowded group at top of this year’s ho-hum quarterback class (Possible Lions fits - Bailey Zappe (Western Kentucky): Detroit’s coaching staff spent the week with the gunslinger at the Senior Bowl. In terms of eye-popping production? Look no further than Bailey Zappe. He threw for a ridiculous 5,967 yards with 62 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 14 games, breaking FBS records in his lone season in the FBS. Zappe’s arm isn’t the strongest. He’s also not an elite athlete. Still, this player knows where to put the ball and could be a backup worth developing.) (2-22-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/02/2022-nfl-combine-detroit-lions-staring-down-crowded-group-at-top-of-this-years-ho-hum-quarterback-class.html

One thing learned about each QB at the Senior Bowl (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Coming into the week, Zappe, a Houston Baptist transfer, had shown an ability to throw with touch and anticipation. Although highly productive at both schools, there were concerns about his arm strength. While he is certainly not in the conversation as having a cannon like Howell or Willis, the Texas native showed marginally better arm strength than expected.  According to TruMedia, Zappe had the lowest sack percentage (2.1%) of any quarterback with at least two pass attempts. The Hilltoppers' offense was predicated on getting the ball out quickly but that further emphasizes that it is not sticking in his hand. The Texas native completed nearly 70% of 686 pass attempts for 5,967 yards, 62 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.) (2-10-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-one-thing-learned-about-malik-willis-kenny-pickett-and-other-senior-bowl-quarterbacks/

2022 NFL draft: Updated QB rankings, post-Senior Bowl (7. Bailey Zappe | Western Kentucky:  Zappe put up some ridiculous numbers for the Hilltoppers in 2021, but that doesn’t necessarily translate to NFL success as a quarterback. His Senior Bowl performance was a mixed bag, with arm strength concerns popping up on some of his deeper throws.  He’ll be an intriguing mid-round prospect for an NFL team that can afford to develop him slowly.) (2-6-22):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-rankings-quarterback-updated-senior-bowl-2022-malik-willis-kenny-pickett-matt-corral/

Calvin Austin III reels in 39-yard reception from Bailey Zappe on fourth-and-long (2-6-22):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/calvin-austin-iii-reels-in-39-yard-reception-from-bailey-zappe-on-fourth-and-lon

JT Woods ball-hawks his way to game-clinching INT for 27 yard return (2-6-22):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/jt-woods-ball-hawks-his-way-to-game-clinching-int-for-27-yard-return

'22 draft: Six takeaways on Senior Bowl standouts (Oklahoma DL Perrion Winfrey took overall MVP honors after making five tackles with two sacks and another tackle for loss. He blew past LSU's Ed Ingram for a crushing sack of Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe.) (2-5-22):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-draft-six-takeaways-on-senior-bowl-standouts

2022 NFL Senior Bowl Quarterback Analysis (Bailey Zappe, Westrn Kentucky:  Bailey Zappe was the final quarterback on the field in the Senior Bowl game, and based on his first pass, the wait was worth it. Zappe showed incredible touch on a 32-yard completion. Unfortunately for Zappe, the rest of his afternoon was a disaster.  Zappe showed poor pocket awareness on numerous occasions. He took three sacks because he held on to the ball too long. I don't know how he didn't fumble on his first sack because it was such a fierce blind-side hit.  Zappe had an adventurous ending to this game. On the final drive, Zappe had a free play on an offsides penalty and took a shot downfield. The pass was woefully underthrown. Zappe came back with a Hail Mary attempt on a fourth down, and the prayer was inexplicably answered. However, on the next play, Zappe had a receiver wide open downfield for a touchdown, but a horrifically weak pass was intercepted to end the game.  Zappe logged the most passing yardage in this contest, going 8-of-13 for 103 yards and a pick. Despite the high yardage total, Zappe doesn't appear to have any sort of NFL upside.  2022 NFL Draft Projection: Round 6-FA) (2-5-22):  https://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2022quarterbacks.php

Final Senior Bowl QB Power Rankings: Malik Willis, Sam Howell steal the show (4. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Bucking the “system QB” moniker with ease, Bailey Zappe had an impressive display of accuracy to all levels of the field during practices. Zappe had command over his balls, for the most part, leaving just a few throws over the middle with more left to be desired. He had one of the best throws of the practice circuit when he nailed Tennessee WR Velus Jones Jr. downfield for what would’ve been a 50+ yard touchdown.  Zappe made quick, easy reads in the WKU offensive scheme last season, but he showed that he can adapt his game to that of an NFL scheme. It was important for him to move the ball around the field — he did that with ease during the week.) (2-5-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-qb-power-rankings-malik-willis-sam-howell/

2022 Reese’s Senior Bowl QB Review: Malik Willis and Desmond Ridder climbing up boards (BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS (PFF Big Board Rank: 92):  Zappe has decent accuracy and downfield touch, but his subpar tools, great situation at Western Kentucky and inability to make a play when knocked off rhythm are going to rightfully scare some NFL teams away until the end of Day 2 or the beginning of Day 3. He is a limited passer by nature, and he verified that during Senior Bowl practices. Zappe earned an 87.4 passing grade in the Hilltoppers’ Air Raid offense this past season and looks like a potential high-quality backup quarterback, which is hard to come by.) (2-4-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2022-reeses-senior-bowl-quarterback-review-malik-willis-desmond-ridder

Senior Bowl notes: Rookie QBs, Patriots next offensive coordinator and more (Ask 20 scouts at the Senior Bowl to rank the six quarterbacks practicing in front of 32 NFL teams this week, and you’d probably receive 20 different answers.  That’s what one executive told PFF on Thursday following the final Senior Bowl practice of the week before Saturday afternoon’s all-star game. The consensus seems to be that this is not a great year to need a young quarterback, though there are many teams who could use one.  Nevada’s Carson Strong has injury concerns; Western Kentucky’s Bailey Zappe lacks zip; Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett didn’t have his hands measured, practiced with gloves and struggled throwing through a rainy Wednesday practice; Liberty’s Malik Willis has the best tools but lacks accuracy; and Cincinnati’s Desmond Ridder and UNC’s Sam Howell didn’t exactly stand out from the crowd this week. (It’s worth noting that the last time I was at the Senior Bowl was in 2012 — I was busy covering AFC Championship Games while covering the New England Patriots in the meantime — when the quarterbacks were Russell Wilson, Kirk Cousins, Nick Foles, Brandon Weeden, Ryan Lindley and Kellen Moore. There were no true standouts that year, either, which goes to show that QBs can still have success without a stellar week in Mobile.)) (2-4-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-doug-kyed-mailbag-senior-bowl-notes-2022-rookie-quarterbacks-patriots-next-offensive-coordinator

NFL Rumors & Draft News: Bubble at NFL Combine and Aaron Rodgers on the move? (Sam Howell and Kenny Pickett most impressive quarterbacks at the Senior Bowl
Tomorrow (February 4), I’ll have a little more on how scouts stacked players at the Senior Bowl. But as far as the quarterbacks are concerned, the scouts I spoke with came away most impressed with Sam Howell and Kenny Pickett.  Howell was consistently the most accurate passer in practice and rarely had passes get away from him. Furthermore, scouts loved his compact delivery, arm strength, and ability to throw the deep pass.  Pickett played well, had some terrific interviews, and really impressed during quarterback meetings. There is some concern about Pickett’s hand size as it was obvious to many Pickett struggled to grip the ball during Wednesday’s rainy practice.  Scouts were not impressed with Bailey Zappe, pointing out the lack of size and arm strength. Those I spoke with say Zappe is a late-rounder who could fall out of the NFL Draft completely.) (2-4-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-rumors-draft-news-bubble-at-nfl-combine-and-aaron-rodgers-on-the-move/

PFN's 2022 Senior Bowl Practice Report:  American Team (Thursday - The only real way to describe Zappe is as a gamer. As the least coveted name of the group coming into Mobile, he’s been a pleasant surprise. He’s not the most physically gifted passer, but he showed great accuracy and timing during the American Team’s indoor practice on Thursday.) (2-3-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-practice-report-american-team/

Observations from the third day of 2022 Senior Bowl practices (All about the QBs: Duce Staley and the Lions finished out the week of practices Thursday with a little throwing competition between quarterbacks Malik Willis, Sam Howell and Bailey Zappe. First, they had to throw into a small net target from 10 yards away. Zappe hit one of three throws, while Willis and Howell went 0-fer.  Next, Staley set up a large red garbage can in the back corner of the end zone, and each signal caller got three throws to try and make it in the bucket from the 20-yard line. Willis hit the bucket twice, though it didn't go in. Zappe and Howell had some throws come close, but failed to make it or hit the bucket.) (2-3-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-senior-bowl-day-3-observations-willis-malone-shakir

Senior Bowl Day 2 notes: Rain, wind no match for Willis (We'll say it again: Bailey Zappe is the prototypical NFL backup, who plays with an edge and reminds us of Taylor Heinicke or Gardner Minshew. He throws with great accuracy and greater confidence, even if he doesn't have the arm strength of a Sam Howell or Malik Willis. He also has an innate sense of where the pass rush is coming from and moves well in the pocket to create space and buy time to make a play.) (2-2-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-senior-bowl-rain-wind-was-no-match-for-malik-willis-on-day-2-of-practice/

Senior Bowl practice Day 1: 6 standouts from Tuesday, QB observations (Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe — While there is a noticeable drop-off in arm strength from Howell and Willis to Zappe, I thought the Western Kentucky quarterback did a good job showing he belonged with the group by connecting on a couple of deep shots.) (2-2-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/2/2/22914315/senior-bowl-practice-day-1-6-standouts-from-tuesday-qb-observations

QBs struggle at Senior Bowl, but Lions remain intrigued by Malik Willis’ dual-threat capabilities (2-2-22):  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/02/qbs-struggle-at-senior-bowl-but-lions-remain-intrigued-by-malik-willis-dual-threat-capabilities.html

PFN's 2022 Senior Bowl Practice Report: National Team (Wednesday - Bailey Zappe was solid throwing the short and intermediate routes, yet there is a discernible lack of arm strength when comparing him to Malik Willis or Sam Howell.) (2-2-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-practice-report-national-team/

Senior Bowl QB Power Rankings: Sam Howell ascends to the top (5. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  While it wasn’t his finest performance, Bailey Zappe had one of the day’s best throws. On a sideline go route to Velus Jones Jr., Zappe hit the Tennessee receiver nearly 55 yards downfield in perfect stride. Zappe had a few more great shots to outside receivers and answered any questions about arm strength to the boundary.  Still, there were a few shots that fell short over the middle. You could argue that Zappe wouldn’t throw these flat shots in real game action as the linemen would require him to put more air on the ball. Nevertheless, short-hopping a few balls over the middle of the field was concerning.) (2-2-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-qb-power-rankings-sam-howell-ascends-to-the-top/

2022 Senior Bowl Day 1 notebook: QBs front and center (The American Team, coached by the Lions, included quarterbacks Sam Howell, Malik Willis and Bailey Zappe. Taking in events live and having not yet seen the practice tape, my initial reaction is that Zappe had the cleanest day of any of the passers. The reality is that he reminds us in some ways of Taylor Heinicke, and that's not a backhanded compliment but a testament to a player who doesn't have all the physical gifts of his colleagues but still finds a way to make plays.   Howell, meanwhile, showed off a strong arm, and was accurate against air. Willis showed off his mobility, his off-platform playmaking ability, and above all else, a cannon for a right arm. Of the six, Willis is the most intriguing for us and has a chance to really change people's minds this week.) (2-1-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-senior-bowl-quarterbacks-look-to-separate-themselves-wide-receivers-edge-rushers-shine-on-day-1/

PFN's 2022 Senior Bowl Practice Report: American Team (Tuesday - Bailey Zappe made one terrific deep throw. But overall, he struggled to get the ball downfield and looked more like a short-to-intermediate-range passer with limitations in the deep game.) (2-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-practice-report-american-team/

2022 Senior Bowl Quarterbacks: Can Kenny Pickett, Carson Strong, or Sam Howell cement themselves as QB1? (Bailey Zappe, the history-maker, can state his case - All the aforementioned chatter about the five quarterbacks almost does a disservice to their final teammate at the Senior Bowl. And all Bailey Zappe did was break Joe Burrow’s historic single-season yardage and touchdown records.  Zappe, hailing from an Air Raid offense, can prove that he wasn’t just a system quarterback and has all the traits to make him a special NFL player. He has the arm strength and the read-and-react ability that some QB prospects lack.  Zappe has the best chance of any of the Senior Bowl quarterbacks to improve his draft stock. Any way you slice it, this is a rare blend of upper-echelon quarterback talent in one place at one time.) (2-1-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-senior-bowl-quarterbacks/

Holmes appreciates how all 3 American Team QBs battled through adversity (Zappe, like Willis, didn't play at a Power 5 school, and he'll also have to show teams he can play under center and run and succeed in a more traditional NFL offense, not the up-tempo, pass-happy one he ran at Western Kentucky) (1-31-22):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/holmes-appreciates-how-all-3-american-team-qbs-battled-through-adversity

2022 Senior Bowl Preview | NFL Draft Superlatives (Quarterback - Biggest Sleeper: Bailey Zappe) (1-31-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft/2022-senior-bowl-preview-nfl-draft-superlatives

Offensive Players to Watch at 2022 Senior Bowl (Quarterback: Bailey Zappe (Team: American):  After four years at Division I FCS school Houston Baptist, Zappe bet on himself and transferred up a level to Western Kentucky. He used his electric arm to rewrite the college football record books in his one season.  There are questions as to how much higher his ceiling can be as a pro. However, there are little issues when it comes to his ability to go through reads and get the ball downfield. The Lions aren’t in the market for a signal-caller right away, but Zappe could play his way into consideration in the middle rounds with a good performance at the Senior Bowl. ) (1-31-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/offensive-players-to-watch-at-2022-senior-bowl

A closer look at the Lions' Senior Bowl roster: Offense (Zappe set the NCAA record for passing yards (5,967) and touchdowns (62) this year while completing nearly 70 percent of his passes. He won't wow teams with his physical talents, but his anticipation and ability to read coverages and know where to go with the football are next level.) (1-24-21):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/a-closer-look-at-the-lions-senior-bowl-roster-offense-willis-cook-tolbert

10 NFL Draft Prospects for Lions to Watch at Senior Bowl (Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky - Team: American.  After spending four seasons at Houston Baptist, Zappe transferred to Western Kentucky, where he enjoyed one of the most prolific seasons a passer has ever had at the collegiate level. He rewrote the records for passing yards and touchdowns, igniting the Hilltoppers’ offense.  Now, he’s entering the draft as a mysterious prospect. Despite the obvious arm talent, there are concerns about his accuracy and ability to make plays on the move. He certainly was prolific as a college quarterback, but he made his money in high-flying, up-tempo offenses. How he translates to the NFL game will be fascinating, as his skills could be a huge asset if put in the right situation.  The Lions seem to be committed to starting quarterback Jared Goff, but they have two backups that are not under contract heading into the offseason. With a good week, Zappe could create a difficult decision to be made inside team headquarters in Allen Park.) (1-24-22):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/10-draft-prospects-lions-to-watch-senior-bowl

Oliver Hodgkinson’s 2022 NFL Draft Risers: Cameron Thomas ascends into first-round range (Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky:  When productive small-school passer Bailey Zappe transferred to Western Kentucky (alongside almost the entire Houston Baptist offense), it sent small ripples across the CFB community. However, nothing could prepare the nation for Zappe’s explosion at the FBS level. Even when he opened the season with 424 yards and 7 touchdowns against UT-Martin, did anyone consider him a potential player in the 2022 NFL Draft class?  Yet, by the end of the season, his 5,967 yards and 62 touchdowns certainly had put him on the national radar. Those performances attracted the attention of Jim Nagy and the Senior Bowl crew, who have placed Zappe among the consensus “elite” group of quarterbacks in the class.  The numbers are impressive. However, much of what Zappe has done to earn his ascension up my 2022 Big Board isn’t reliant on huge production.  The Western Kentucky QB doesn’t have a howitzer of an arm like some. Nonetheless, he’s the most intelligent quarterback in the class. He throws the ball with accuracy, anticipation, and elite placement. These qualities lead me to believe he will have the longest NFL career of any QB in the 2022 NFL Draft.) (1-21-22):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oliver-hodgkinsons-2022-nfl-draft-risers-cameron-thomas-ascends-into-first-round-range/

NFL Draft: Introducing the top QB prospects (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky - Strengths: Whip-like delivery. Ball is out of his hands in a hurry on every throw. Loves and will hit the difficult throws down the field and at the intermediate level. Drifts away from pressure well while keeping his eyes up in the pocket. Some creativity to his game, and his arm talent is above-average. Accuracy is mostly very good.  Weaknesses: Smaller frame and only average athleticism for the position despite his willingness to improvise. After fitting a bunch of difficult throws into his target, he'll be slightly off with his ball placement on an easy throw or two. Arm talent is more impressive than his arm strength. He'll attempt the long "NFL" throws but the ball takes an extra split second to arrive. Stylistic NFL comparison: Rough-around-the-edges Baker Mayfield) (1-20-22):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-qb-prospects-strengths-weaknesses-and-pro-comparisons-for-the-top-signal-callers/

Breaking down the Detroit Lions’ Senior Bowl roster on offense (Zappe is highly accurate, but lacks arm strength and may be close to developmentally maxed out. If he can prove there’s more there, he could turn into a starter, but for now, projections point towards him being an early Day 3 option who is a 10+ year backup in the NFL.) (1-18-22):  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/1/18/22888349/detroit-lions-senior-bowl-roster-offense-analysis-breakdown-2022-american

Lions could be coaching their next quarterback in Senior Bowl (Zappe, even less recruited than Willis, just put up the best passing season in college football history. He broke NCAA records with 5,967 yards and 62 touchdowns; the latter record previously belonged to Joe Burrow. Both Zappe and Willis will be questioned for their quality of competition, which places a premium on their performances in Mobile -- and makes the Lions' perspective all the more valuable.) (1-14-22):  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/lions-could-coach-their-next-quarterback-in-senior-bowl

Top 15 2022 NFL Draft prospect performances in 2021 college football bowl games (15. QB BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS (PFF Grade: 84.2, Opponent: APPALACHIAN STATE):  Setting the single-season passing yardage and touchdown records will earn you a spot on this list, and Zappe went for 422 yards yards and six scores to give himself 5,967 yards and 62 touchdowns on the year. He racked up five big-time throws and no turnover-worthy plays in the win.) (1-13-22):  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-top-2022-nfl-draft-prospect-performances-2021-bowl-games


NFL Draft prospects 2022: Malik Willis, Bailey Zappe and 10 more players to watch in first college football bowl games (Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky (6-1, 220 ponds):  Zappe had a prolific first season with the Hilltoppers jumping to FBS competition. He keeps doing his best to rewrite the big passing records through volume, accuracy and a quick release in an "Air Raid" like system. He will be looking to get more attention for his accuracy and arm to sneak into Day 3 consideration.) (12-18-21):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/amp/nfl/news/malik-willis-bailey-zappe-top-2022-nfl-draft-prospects/123pnof0157ka1cbwhf29kiht1

2022 NFL Draft bowl tracker: Wyoming LB Chad Muma tasked with corralling Kent State QB Dustin Crum (Western Kentucky vs. App State (11 a.m. ET on ESPN):  Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe has been rising in the draft community. The Houston Baptist transfer is calm in the pocket. He shows great accuracy and an understanding of how to lead his receivers. Zappe is headed to the Reese's Senior Bowl in an effort to boost his stock even more.) (12-18-21):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-bowl-tracker-wyoming-lb-chad-muma-tasked-with-corralling-kent-state-qb-dustin-crum/

Bailey Zappe has shot to break Joe Burrow's career TD record in Boca Raton Bowl (12-17-21):  https://news.yahoo.com/bailey-zappe-shot-break-joe-224317497.html

10 college bowl game prospects to watch: December 17-19 (2. Quarterback Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
RoofClaim.com Boca Raton Bowl (Appalachian St. vs. Western Kentucky), Sat. Dec. 18:  Zappe, a transfer from Houston Baptist, is the Conference USA MVP after throwing for a conference-record 56 touchdowns in his only season with the Hilltoppers. He is also the national leader with 5,570 yards passing, and is within reach of the FBS single-season record of 5,833 yards going into this game. He'll also be at the Senior Bowl.) (12-16-21):  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-bowl-game-prospects-to-watch-this-week-willis-zappe-malone

Top 10 Quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft: Kenny Pickett continues his ascension to the top (7. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  The emergence of Bailey Zappe through the Air Raid offense at Western Kentucky has transformed the evaluation process of such quarterbacks. Zappe attacks all levels of the field with ease and makes NFL throws despite an offense that doesn’t call very many pro-level pass concepts.  Zappe has transcended the system while possessing more than enough athleticism to buy time in the pocket to find receivers downfield. His arm strength may only be in the above-average category, but his consistently accurate footballs make that an afterthought.) (12-12-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-quarterbacks-in-the-2022-nfl-draft-kenny-pickett-matt-corral-continue-their-ascension/

PFN’s All-American Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Best Offensive Player: Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky:  Truly the best purely offensive player in the country, Bailey Zappe was a record-breaker in 2021. He still has the chance to break or at least tie the all-time FBS passing touchdown record of 60 when he takes part in the Boca Raton Bowl in December. Zappe finished the year with a national-best 5,545 passing yards and 56 touchdowns. He had 1,000+ more yards and 13 more touchdowns than any other quarterback in the country.  PFN All American Offense - Best Quarterback: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky.  PFN Second-Team All-American Offense - QB: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky) (12-8-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-american-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/

PFN’s All-Conference USA Football Team Honors for the 2021 college football season (Conference USA Player of the Year: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky.  C-USA Offensive Player of the Year: Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky.  C-USA Quarterback of the Year: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky.  Zappe is 4 passing touchdowns away from tying Joe Burrow’s all-time collegiate record for touchdowns in a season. If he were to throw 5 TDs in WKU’s bowl game against Appalachian State, he’d break Burrow’s record. Impressively enough, if he were to break — or even tie — Burrow’s record, he’d do it in one fewer game to boot.  First-Team All-Conference USA Offense - QB: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky) (12-7-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/all-conference-usa-football-team-honors-for-the-2021-college-football-season/

NFL Draft prospects 2022: Updated big board of top 100 players overall (100. Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Michigan (6-1, 220 pounds):  Zappe has had a prolific first season bumping up to FBS with great accuracy, smarts and toughness in a "Air Raid" style high-volume passing game.) (12-6-21):  https://www.sportingnews.com/us/amp/nfl/news/nfl-draft-prospects-2022-player-rankings-big-board/15xmexshw7ywc1u9ijg32sjwhr

College Football Players of the Week from Conference Championship games (QB Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Conference USA got things off to an explosive start with a thrilling 49-41 win for UTSA over the Hilltoppers. The Roadrunners at one point built up a 42-13 lead, but Bailey Zappe brought his team back and had a chance to tie the game up. UTSA couldn’t stop Western Kentucky’s passing attack, and it allowed Zappe to get within reach of a record.  Thanks to 577 yards and 4 touchdowns in the game, Zappe is now eighth all-time for passing yards in a single season and third in passing touchdowns in one season. He’s 289 yards and 5 touchdowns away from holding both records and deserves to be a Heisman finalist in addition to one of our College Football Players of the Week.) (12-5-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-14/

WKU's Bailey Zappe throws for 577 yards, 4 TDs in C-USA title game (12-3-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/12/03/nfl-draft-bailey-zappe-western-kentucky-conference-usa-college-football/

2022 NFL Draft: Top underrated prospects to watch during college football's championship weekend (Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe:  Zappe transferred from Houston Baptist and set Conference USA aflame with nearly 5,000 yards passing and 52 touchdowns to just nine interceptions. Zappe's a unique passer in that he throws with a noticeably quiet lower half. But the ball comes out in a hurry with solid velocity and accuracy to all levels. Zappe is a smaller quarterback by NFL standards, but his extraordinary production -- operating Western Kentucky's Air Raid offense -- has put him on the draft radar.) (12-2-21):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2022-nfl-draft-top-underrated-prospects-to-watch-during-college-footballs-championship-weekend

Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe is putting up some ridiculous numbers (12-1-21):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2021/12/01/nfl-draft-bailey-zappe-western-kentucky-stats-joe-burrow/

Western Kentucky quarterback Bailey Zappe is making the most of his FBS opportunity (12-1-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-western-kentucky-quarterback-bailey-zappe-is-making-the-most-of-his-fbs-opportunity-2021

2022 NFL Draft Rumors: Will David Ojabo enter the draft? (Is Bailey Zappe a draftable quarterback coming from the Air Raid offense at WKU?  I don’t have a draftable grade on Bailey Zappe as the systems he played in at Western Kentucky and Houston Baptist are not conducive to developing NFL prospects.  That being the case, Zappe is on the Senior Bowl roster, and a good week of practice will definitely push him into the late rounds.) (11-30-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2022-nfl-draft-rumors-michigans-david-ojabo-likely-to-enter-draft/

2022 NFL draft: Winners and losers from the second half of the college football season (Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe - Zappe was pretty wild and a bit careless in Saturday’s win at Marshall, and he has some obvious things working against his NFL ceiling as a prospect. But there’s also no doubt that he’s put himself on the map with his efficiency, lightning-quick release and fearless approach.  Yes, the offensive system and some good weapons helped Zappe throw for 4,968 yards with a 52-9 TD-INT ratio while completing 70.1% of his passes. But we can’t hold that against him enough to suggest that he has put himself in a position to be drafted this spring with a brilliant final season after transferring from Houston Baptist.) (11-29-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-from-the-second-half-of-the-college-football-season-203710733.html

The 2021 College Football All-Conference USA Team (C-USA OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR - QB BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY HILLTOPPERS:  The 2021 transfer posted an 85.3 passing grade in his first year as the Hilltoppers starter, finishing top-five in the FBS in deep completions (41), completion percentage (53.9%), passing yards (1,394) and touchdowns (15).  Western Kentucky went from third-to-last in the conference in expected points added (EPA) per pass play in 2020 to first in the same metric in 2021, and Zappe was the biggest reason why.  FIRST-TEAM ALL-CONFERENCE USA - QB Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky) (11-29-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2021-all-big-12-team-offensive-defensive-player-of-the-year-bailey-zappe-western-kentucky-alex-wright-uab

2022 NFL draft: Ole Miss' Matt Corral might be QB1, but it's a drop from recent drafts (7. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
(Last week: 8th):  Just another day at the office for Zappe: 39 of 49 passing for 470 and six touchdowns in a win over Florida Atlantic. Yes, there were two interceptions, too, and we've noticed Zappe being a tad loosey-goosey with the ball in some recent outings, but that certainly is bound to happen with a high-volume passer that plays so much up-tempo.  Nonetheless, our evaluation remains the same on him. We view Zappe as a Chase Daniel-Gardner Minshew type of backup with replacement-starter capabilities who could carve out a pretty nice, respectable NFL career.) (11-22-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-ole-miss-matt-corral-might-be-qb-1-but-its-a-drop-from-recent-drafts-184710197.html

2022 NFL draft: Kenny Pickett-Sam Howell duel, Phil Jurkovec's return tilt QB rankings (8. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
(Last week: 8th):  On Saturday, Zappe returned to the town where he cut his teeth as a college quarterback, at Houston Baptist, and wrecked his opponent with throw after accurate throw. The Hilltoppers beat Rice in Houston, 42-21, as Zappe connected on 80.1 percent off his passes and averaged 11 yards per attempt, hitting four different receivers on his five TDs and throwing for 330 yards in the first half alone.  Zappe also faced the kitchen sink defensively, as Rice threw every look it could dream up, coverage- and pressure-wise. When WKU tried to go tempo on the opening drive, Zappe fumbled a snap from the Rice 8-yard line and tried to force a pass into the end zone that was picked. It was one of the few regrettable plays in the game.  Otherwise, he was on point, especially on downfield passes. His projection is as a backup NFL quarterback, but there's absolutely a player worth developing here, despite average traits.) (11-15-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-kenny-pickett-sam-howell-duel-phil-jukovecs-return-tilt-qb-rankings-180259054.html

Studying Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe against Michigan State (11-12-21):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2021/11/12/bailey-zappe-western-kentucky-michigan-state/

2022 NFL draft: Matt Corral outshines Malik Willis in QB showdown (8. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
(Last week: 7th):  The "100 Miles of Hate" game was pretty much a laugher, with WKU coasting thanks to seven Middle Tennessee State turnovers to none for the Hilltoppers. But Zappe wasn't his typically precise self early on, misfiring on several throws en route to a 29-for-50 passing effort with 281 yards.  Yes, Zappe got hot in the second half, threw for four TDs and didn't turn the ball over. But look closely enough and you'll see this wasn't his finest individual effort of the season.) (11-8-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-matt-corral-outshines-malik-willis-in-qb-showdown-182430797.html

2022 NFL draft: Can Nevada's Carson Strong end up as QB1? (7. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
(Last week: 10th):  Zappe started out hot, throwing for two TDs and running for another, to lead the Hilltoppers to a 21-3 edge. Then he took two steps back with interceptions that led to 10 unanswered points by Charlotte.  But Zappe finished off what he started, adding two more TD passes down the stretch in a mostly good performance (with one cold spell in the middle) and another step forward as an NFL prospect.  It wasn't the cleanest game for Zappe, and he'll have his share of doubters in the 2021 NFL draft arena. But he's a live thrower with a quick trigger and terrific accuracy.) (11-1-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-can-nevadas-carson-strong-end-up-as-qb-1-154715450.html


2022 NFL draft: Liberty's Malik Willis tries to crash top of QB power rankings (10. Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky
(Last week: n/a):  The small-framed Zappe has been on a tear in recent games, hitting the 3,000-yard passing mark on the nose through seven games. Yep, do the math, and you'll see that comes out to 428.6 yards per game. He also boasts a 29-4 TD-INT ratio, which is pretty impressive considering it's his first-year call-up from FCS-level Houston Baptist.  Now there's a ripple of buzz around him in his first year with the Hilltoppers, especially following his 488-yard, three-TD performance at Michigan State a few weeks back. According to a source within the program, "every team has been asking about him." At the least, Zappe is a shoe-in for the East-West Shrine Bowl, and he could work his way into the Senior Bowl picture.  How high can a 6-foot, 215-pound quarterback with average arm strength be drafted? That's the million-dollar question. But there's a high-floor backup in Zappe, we suspect, especially for a team that operates with a short and intermediate rhythm passing game.) (10-25-21):  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-draft-libertys-malik-willis-tries-to-crash-top-of-qb-power-rankings-191922092.html

Week 7 College Football Players of the Week: Tyrion Davis-Price breaks LSU’s single-game rushing record (QB Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky:  Bailey Zappe came from Houston Baptist, and all he’s done is continue his elite production with the Hilltoppers. Against Old Dominion, he passed for 397 yards and 5 touchdowns. His top target, Jerreth Sterns, caught 13 of his passes for 221 yards and 1 touchdown. Zappe is now up to 2,632 yards and 26 touchdowns on the season.) (10-17-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-7/

Bailey Zappe An Under-The-Radar Draft Prospect To Watch (10-14-21):  https://thedraftnetwork.com/articles/bailey-zappe-2022-nfl-draft-stock

Week 6 College Football Players of the Week: Caleb Williams and Isaiah Likely (Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky: Zappe did all he could to help Western Kentucky pull out a win over UTSA, but ultimately the Hilltoppers’ defense couldn’t get enough stops. The former Houston Baptist transfer has been balling all year, and he continued that trend this weekend. Zappe completed 38 passes for 523 yards and 5 touchdowns to lead Western Kentucky’s offense.) (10-10-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-nflwk-6/

$.10 After 2021 NFL Week 4 (I watched the game to get a fuller picture of WKU QB Bailey Zappe, who has some eye-popping numbers. Zappe, a transfer from Houston Baptist, thrives in the up-tempo and quick-read game, but he’s not just pigeonholed there. He has some pocket sense and escapability and doesn’t shy away from attacking down the field. I’ve now seen Zappe against Indiana and Michigan State and would file him with a draftable grade, albeit late in the draft. He’s got a chance to stick around the NFL as a backup in a Kubiak/Shanahan system for a long time.) (10-4-21): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3382/$10-After-2021-NFL-Week-4

NFL draft prospects for the Lions to watch in college football Week 5 (Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky:  Zappe has been one of the most prolific passers in college football over the years before transferring from Houston Baptist to Western Kentucky. The step up in level of competition has only created more buzz for Zappe thanks to his insane production numbers through three games:   87-of-119 (73.1%), 1,224 yards, 13 TDs, 2 INTs.  I caught Zappe’s impressive game against Indiana and want to see more. He and the Hilltoppers draw their sternest test yet in Michigan State (7:30 p.m., FS1). A strong performance against the unbeaten Spartans on the road will definitely create more attention around Zappe.  Zappe isn’t physically all that impressive (6-1/220 listed but both seem generous) and the arm strength is average at best by NFL standards, but he’s got a great release, outstanding anticipatory accuracy and an innate ability to get balls into tighter windows than his arm strength would seem to facilitate.) (10-2-21):  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-draft-prospects-detroit-lions-notre-dame-cincinnati-cfb-week-5/

Stock Watch: Kenny Pickett shines, Sam Howell and Spencer Rattler bounceback (Stock Up: Bailey Zappe, Western Kentucky - If you have yet to do so, it might be time for you to check out Western Kentucky passer Bailey Zappe. After putting up huge numbers for Houston Baptist the past few years, Zappe transfered to the Hilltoppers for this season. Last year in a COVID-abridged year, Zappe threw for 1,833 yards and 15 touchdowns.  In just four games.  Zappe threw for 424 yards and a whopping seven touchdowns in a Week 1 victory over UT-Martin of the FCS level, and he nearly matched those numbers this week against Army. Although the Hilltoppers lost, Zappe’s play is worth studying. Take this touchdown from the second half.  At first blush this looks like a risky throw, but Zappe’s pass here is an absolute rocket, made moving to his left before letting this fly. The QB opened to his right, so he did not see the receiver early in the down, but he kept his eyes downfield and had the ability to put this on his target for the score.  Zappe could make even more noise over the next few weeks, as WKU has back-to-back games against Big Ten competition. If he fares well against Indiana and then Michigan State, he’ll put himself right in the conversation for the draft.) (9-12-21):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/kenny-pickett-sam-howell-spencer-rattler-texas-longhorns/

Bryce Young and Mo Ibrahim highlight college football players of Week 1 (Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky:  Arguably the most deserving of one of the top college football players of the week, Zappe put on a show for Western Kentucky. The Houston Baptist transfer threw for 424 yards and 7 touchdowns in his Hilltoppers’ debut, and his performance gave validity to those who believe this team can win the conference.) (9-5-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-players-of-the-week-2021-cfbwk-1/

Top breakout quarterback candidates ahead of the 2021 college football season (BAILEY ZAPPE, WESTERN KENTUCKY:  The Hilltoppers landed a major transfer addition in Zappe, who joins the team from Houston Baptist. While his Husky squad went 1-3 in their four outings last fall, Zappe performed admirably, earning an 86.1 passing grade and leading the team to 0.38 expected points added (EPA) per pass play.  Zappe earned an elite 91.2 passing grade and generated a minimal 1.7% turnover-worthy play rate against FBS competition at Houston Baptist. He should provide a spark to a Hilltopper passing offense that ranked second-to-last in the C-USA in passing grade and third-to-last in passing efficiency.) (8-18-21):  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-breakout-candidate-quarterback-2021-college-football-season

Conference USA 2022 NFL Draft prospects and scouting reports (Bailey Zappe, QB | Grade: 3.05 | Projected Round: FA and Ben Ratzlaff, WR | Grade: 3.0 | Projected Round: FA.  Quarterback Bailey Zappe and receiver Ben Ratzlaff both transferred from Houston Baptist, where the duo put up huge numbers. I presently grade both as UDFAs. Nevertheless, big senior campaigns could get them a postseason invite to an All-Star game and put them in the conversation as late-round prospects.) (7-4-21):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/conference-usa-draft-prospects-scouting-reports-2022-nfl-draft/2/
Posted by LionsFan at 1:31 PM

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