Shrine Bowl matchup: The quarterbacks

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THE QBs: Summers set for State | Rowe up to speed

SPARTANBURG, SC -- The annual Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas is set to will kick off on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. ET at Gibbs Stadium in Spartanburg, S.C., and the game boasts many stars on both the North Carolina and South Carolina teams. As with any football game, the game can be won and lost simply by the play of the quarterbacks. Both sides have a marquee signal-caller on the roster and each will certainly get his share of reps. So will it be Greensboro (N.C.) Page quarterback James Summers that makes the difference? Here's our breakdown:

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The players:

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North Carolina quarterback: James Summers (Page)

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South Carolina quarterback: Caleb Rowe (Blue Ridge)

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The breakdown:

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North Carolina's star is James Summers who led his team on an amazing playoff run to a state title knocking off in-state powers Butler and Mallard Creek, both of whom are loaded with D-I prospects. Summers is the kind of dual-threat quarterback who can excel in a game like this when offensive lines can break down and there isn't a great deal of chemistry due to limited practice time. If any quarterback is going to break this game open by improvising, it's Summers.

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On the flip side, Rowe is a pocket passer who has shown excellent accuracy and a quick release and if he has time, he can do some damage with the amazing group of receivers he has. The key for South Carolina will be keeping him clean as the loaded NC defensive line comes after him.

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Summers has the edge because he is evasive, can do things on the run and is comfortable outside the pocket. However, an ankle injury mid week could slow him down and if Rowe stays upright, he can lead a strong offense as well.

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