With quarterbacks often paving the way for a winning tradition, the Grand Valley State University football program had big shoes to fill when Brad Iciek graduated last December. Now that Iciek is gone, newly-appointed starting quarterback Kyle McMahon must fill that role.

McMahon, a senior transfer from Eastern Michigan University, beat out fellow senior Marquel Neasman in a heated battle for the starting quarterback job this offseason.

Fans may recall Neasman from appearances during lopsided Laker blowouts during the previous three seasons. However, McMahon’s strong arm paired with his ability to make plays with his feet ultimately won favor from GVSU head coach Matt Mitchell.

McMahon said he has been dutifully studying the offense since his arrival in Allendale and expects to be all-systems-go on Thursday against West Texas A&M University.

“I’m extremely comfortable with the offense,” he said. “I got to go through the whole summer. I was up here working on the plays, working with the guys, and camp was obviously a big help as well. Now it’s just about going out there, starting on Thursday and executing what we do.”

Mitchell said McMahon’s size – he is 5 inches taller and 31 pounds heavier than Neasm