OSU football: The pros and cons of the QB candidates

Here's a look at what it would mean for the Cowboys if each of the three contenders won the job — or if the Cowboys opt to continue the competition into the summer.

If Clint Chelf wins the job:

Pros: In Chelf, the Cowboys hand the reins to the only quarterback in the program with game experience and the only one to work in OSU's spread attack since Dana Holgorsen installed it. And as a fourth-year junior, he is well-known and, by all accounts, a well-respected by his teammates.

Cons: Chelf didn't perform well enough to beat out a pair of freshmen and earn the starting nod before the spring ended. That's not a good sign for him. One of the big questions regarding Chelf from Gundy and Monken entering the spring was his leadership ability. That quality will be crucial in organizing summer workouts.

Todd Monken's take: “I can't remember ups and downs with Clint. He's been pretty steady.”

If J.W. Walsh wins the job:

Pros: Monken raves about Walsh's leadership, which likely makes him the guy most equipped to run summer workouts. His athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs would add an extra dimension to OSU's spread offense.

Cons: Walsh's arm strength has improved, but that needs to continue in order to direct what is primarily a throw-first offense. He admits he hit a funk during the middle of the spring, and too much inconsistency (or too many turnovers) would likely lead to getting benched in the fall.