Redshirt sophomore Neal Burcham named SMU's starting quarterback

Garrett Gilbert's former backup is now his successor. 

Head coach June Jones announced Thursday that Neal Burcham will start at quarterback when SMU kicks off its season at Baylor on Aug. 31. 

"He has been waiting his turn to get in there," Jones explained via BIll Nichols of the Dallas Morning News. "I have been impressed watching him the last couple of years. He’s prepared himself, he’s worked hard. It’s just getting familiar with the offense and knowing where to go with the ball quickly and knowing your reads."

Burcham stumbled to a 1-2 record with 556 yards passing, two touchdowns and four interceptions in three spot starts last season for the injured Gilbert.

Texas A&M transfer Matt Davis will back up the redshirt sophomore.