How Bishop Fitzgerald's roots as a quarterback helped him become a prolific USC safety

""I fell back on my training," Fitzgerald said of the pick, "and I made the play that came to me.""

""He could have been a college quarterback - and a good one," says Tony Keiling, Sr., who coached Fitzgerald as a quarterback in youth football and at Gar-Field High School in Woodbridge, Va. "He could make every throw. He could understand defenses. He could roll out and run. He was dynam"

Bishop Fitzgerald transitioned from a talented high school quarterback to safety because of several hurdles. He studies film and uses quarterback instincts to read opposing offenses, enabling him to anticipate plays in the red zone. He intercepted Ryan Browne's pass by recognizing play action and remaining patient before making the grab. Fitzgerald is in his first season at USC and leads the nation with three interceptions through three games. USC coaches favor recruits with quarterback experience because of their deeper understanding of play development. High school coach Tony Keiling praised Fitzgerald's throwing ability and understanding of defenses.

Read at Los Angeles Times