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Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz entered the 2016 preseason as the third string quarterback of the team.
Four weeks later, he was named the starter and went on to lead his team to a 3-0 start with an impressive run of play. It isn't often that rookie quarterbacks (even first round picks) are named starters from week one, and even less likely that they'll have any success when they are.
However, that early success is just one of many things that Wentz has in common with Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. Before ever stepping into an NFL field, Wentz cited Flacco as one of his many inspirations due to his origins as a small school passer who beat the odds to become a coveted draft prospect.
When asked about Wentz, Flacco admitted that he does follow some of the smaller school players as they make their transition to the NFL as he did in 2008.
Flacco went on to state that he believed Wentz would have success in the league because while the level of competition may not be necessary top notch, Wentz wasn't throwing to NFL level receivers. He believes that this is ultimately why players as Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo who attended Eastern Illinois go overlooked.
Flacco was somewhat eased into the pro game by being complemented by a strong running game and even stronger defense. Wentz hasn’t been afforded such a luxury, and after their hot start, the Eagles have fallen back to the pack.
However, if Flacco’s high praise of his young counterpart is to be taken seriously, the Ravens would be wise not to overlook this team come Sunday.