If You Have Two Quarterbacks, You Have Two Quarterbacks: Duquesne’s Heisey Named a Prime Performer

In football, the adage goes, “If you have two quarterbacks, you have none.” The idea is that teams need one clear leader under center, and indecision at the position can cause confusion. But Duquesne is rewriting this notion, showing that having two quarterbacks doesn't necessarily mean instability. Instead, it can mean having depth and reliability at the most crucial position.

With Darius Perrantes, a Walter Payton Award Watch List player, out due to concussion protocol, senior Jordan Heisey stepped up in a big way during the Dukes' 35-0 victory over West Virginia Wesleyan. While the team collectively threw for 161 yards and relied heavily on a potent running game, Heisey’s efficient play behind center highlighted the strength of Duquesne’s quarterback room.

Heisey’s Breakout Start

Jordan Heisey, making his first career start, delivered a steady performance, completing 17 of 23 passes with three touchdowns. The senior’s leadership kept the offense rolling, especially after a 59-minute weather delay. Connecting with Joey Isabella for a touchdown before the delay and with Jermaine Johnson twice afterward, Heisey made the most of his opportunity, showing that he could guide the team when called upon.

Though Heisey didn’t put up gaudy numbers in terms of yardage, his ability to execute in critical moments was key. He led three second-quarter scoring drives, capitalizing on the defense's strong play and setting the tone for Duquesne's dominant performance.

Darius Perrantes: The QB1 with NFL Potential

Meanwhile, Darius Perrantes, Duquesne’s starting quarterback, has proven himself as one of the top players in the FCS. A traditional pocket passer with a strong arm and high football IQ, Perrantes’ talent has earned him a spot on the Walter Payton Award Watch List, given to the best offensive player in FCS football. He’s shown the ability to make all the throws, leading the Dukes with precision and poise.

Though sidelined temporarily, Perrantes is expected to return and resume his role as the team’s top signal-caller. His NFL potential isn’t just talk—his consistency and command of the offense make him a legitimate prospect. While he may not be a dual-threat quarterback, his ability to read defenses and make difficult throws sets him apart as a true pro-style passer.

A Two-Quarterback System That Works

Unlike teams that struggle with quarterback indecision, Duquesne finds itself in a fortunate position. While Perrantes is clearly the leader and starter, Heisey’s solid performance shows the Dukes have more than just a capable backup—they have two quarterbacks who can win games.

When Perrantes returns to full health, there won’t be a controversy. However, Heisey’s presence provides peace of mind for Duquesne fans and coaches alike. If Perrantes needs more time to recover or faces any setbacks, Heisey has proven he’s more than ready to lead.

Depth as an Asset

Duquesne’s success isn’t about splitting reps or causing confusion; it’s about having depth at the most important position. In today’s game, where injuries can derail a season, the Dukes have shown they have more than enough talent to navigate challenging moments.

For Duquesne, having two quarterbacks doesn’t mean indecision—it means opportunity. As they gear up for the rest of the season, they can do so knowing that no matter who’s under center, the team is in good hands.

In this case, having two quarterbacks means Duquesne truly has two reliable options, and that’s a luxury most programs would love to have.