Keith Wenning's play since taking over as Ball State's quarterback has been inconsistent. A fast start against Liberty in his first significant playing time of the season gave fans an indication of what could be expected from the freshman. His dreadful first half against Western Michigan showed the opposite end of the spectrum.
Since Wenning completed 1-of-8 passes and threw two interceptions on Homecoming, he has put together what might be his best games in back-to-back weeks. In the past two weeks, Wenning has completed 35-of-68 passes for 369 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions.
He feels himself improving week by week.
"Each game gets better and better," Wenning said. "Coming out and knowing the offense and knowing what we have to achieve, definitely it's been more comfortable."
It hasn't been easy for Wenning the past few weeks as the Cardinals' offensive line has been decimated by injuries. With so few lineman healthy enough to play each week, Stan Parrish has had to devise a game plan that allows Wenning and the offense to be successful. Last week at Toledo, that involved moving Wenning around in the pocket to give him more time to throw.
Though he was sacked only once, that didn't prevent Wenning from taking hits throughout the game. He also fumbled after getting hit, showing Parrish he needs to get better in a crucial area.
"I think he's understanding how fast this game is," Parrish said. "His clock's got to improve. He got hit from behind and fumbled on a play. You've got to know there's guys coming."
The offensive line was able to protect Wenning long enough for him to connect on some downfield throws. Wenning threw three passes for more than 20 yards, two going to wide receiver Jack Tomlinson.
Two of Wenning's touchdown passes also went to Tomlinson, including a 42-yard completion in the first quarter. Wenning said his connection with Tomlinson is strong.
"We have got a good relationship, as I do with all the receivers," Wenning said. "But he's very explosive and able to make big plays."
Wenning's quick development into Ball State's starting quarterback is no surprise to Parrish. Neither is the toughness and poise he has shown in the past two weeks.
Parrish said he knew what Wenning could become when he watched him lead Coldwater High School in Ohio's Division V State Championship last year. Coldwater lost to Youngstown Ursuline High School 55-25, but Wenning threw for 414 yards and three touchdowns and led his team in rushing, adding 44 yards and another touchdown.
"He got hit just like [at Toledo] all night long," Parrish said. "He kept his team in the game until the last couple plays. Sometimes you see a guy and you say, ‘That's what you really like and can build around.' I thought he had a chance, but you never know until they get here."
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