Kizer stands by QB comps: Why play 'if you don't want to be the greatest?'

DeShone Kizer seems to have all the confidence he needs for a transition to the NFL.

The former Notre Dame quarterback made headlines earlier this week when, in an interview with Tom Pelissero of USA Today Sports, he presented himself as a blend of bona fide superstars Tom Brady and Cam Newton.

Asked about the comments while attending his alma mater's spring game Saturday, Kizer wasn't about to back down.

"When you decide to play a game like this you're going to try to model yourself after the greatest. It was a comment I made and I’m going to stand by it," Kizer told NBCSN, according to Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.

Kizer's lofty comparisons understandably raised some eyebrows, but drive and determination are key factors for any quarterback hoping to have success at the next level.

He's looking to make the absolute most of the opportunity that lies in front of him.

"Why play this game if you don't want to be the greatest?" Kizer said.

Kizer declared for the NFL draft on the heels of an up-and-down junior season. While his inconsistency will have raised some questions in evaluations from scouts, there's no denying the upside he brings in terms of pure ability.

Along with Deshaun Watson, Mitchell Trubisky, and Patrick Mahomes, Kizer is one of four quarterbacks thought to be in the mix for a possible first-round selection Thursday night.