How many college quarterbacks can say they won four bowl games and was named first-team all-conference three times?
Washington Redskins quarterback Pat White can.
White's career at West Virginia University was historic. He set multiple school records in passing and rushing categories and was one of five players in Division-I history to rush for 1,000 yards and pass for 1,000 yards in a season, and the only person to do so twice.
Putting physical talent aside, White can thank the option offense for his collegiate success, something that the Redskins' implemented under quarterback Robert Griffin III last season.
White played only one season in the NFL, a disappointing 2009 campaign with the Miami Dolphins, where he struggled to adapt to the traditional NFL offense.
After being used as a gimmick playmaker in the Wildcat system, White received a head injury on a brutal sack and was relegated to the sidelines. Before the 2010 season, he was released.
Three years later, White's collegiate success makes him a poster child for the new-look mobile offense. When the Redskins expressed interest in signing him this offseason, White was ready to return.
"I miss the competitiveness of the game, the challenge of the daily grind," he told Redskins.com. "I am trying to get better, and I'm going to push everyone each and every day.
"My mentality is different in that I treat every day like it's game day."
Despite having three veteran quarterbacks on the roster, the Redskins targeted White this offseason to help the team run the read-option while Robert Griffin III returns from injury.
"I feel like the Redskins chose me. I put myself out there to find the right situation, and I felt like this is the best fit for me," he said. "The way they ran the offense really excited me. And I was just happy for them to give me an opportunity.
His presence on the practice field can also help the defense learn how to prepare for the read-option on other teams.
Having a good scout team is critical in the NFL, especially when the Redskins have quarterbacks on the schedule like Michael Vick (twice), Colin Kaepernick and Josh Freeman.
"There are some other teams that are using [the read-option], and I can also help the Redskins prepare for other teams that run it."
Pat White came back to continue his career as a quarterback, but if the possibility arises for switching positions, White said he will do anything to make the Washington Redskins better.
"Whatever the coaches ask of me, I will do it with the best of my abilities," he said. "My heart's set on being a quarterback, but I am willing to play other positions and will do whatever it takes to help the team."
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