JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — A fresh chapter for ETSU football has begun, with the quarterback competition set to be among the most captivating in the Southern Conference this year.

New head coach Will Healy is guiding the Buccaneers into fall training with two seasoned Division I quarterbacks contending for the starting role. Cade McNamara and Jacolby Criswell, both possessing significant experience, are strong contenders to lead the team’s offense as the season approaches later this month.

“They’ve both been exceptional,” Healy stated. “The competition is intense, which is beneficial. They motivate each other, have mutual respect, and genuinely get along. Neither is willing to concede the starting position, but they realize we’ll rely on both to achieve our goals.”

Despite being ranked fourth in the SoCon preseason coaches’ poll, Healy is optimistic that the quarterback depth, along with team unity, could elevate their standings. The Buccaneers aim to surpass last season’s performance and assert themselves as serious challengers in the conference.

Fans won’t have to wait long to witness who emerges as the starting quarterback. ETSU will kick off the 2025 season at William B. Greene Jr. Stadium, hosting Murray State on August 30.