CINCINNATI — Cincinnati quarterback JC French is putting together one of the most accurate passing seasons in Bearcats history, even as the team continues working through an uneven stretch of its schedule. Through eight games, French has completed 67.1% of his passes, a mark that would rank among the best single-season performances in program history.
French has completed 143 of 213 attempts for 1,773 yards, 13 touchdowns, and three interceptions. Among Cincinnati quarterbacks with at least 200 passing attempts in a season, his current completion percentage ranks second in school history, trailing only Brendon Kay's 68.6% in 2013.
The numbers reflect how effective French has been operating Scott Satterfield's offense. Cincinnati has leaned heavily on its running game, but French has provided balance through the air while also contributing 289 rushing yards and seven touchdowns himself.
His performance against West Virginia on October 17 was among his best of the season. French completed 22 of 30 passes for 389 yards and three touchdowns in Cincinnati's 45-42 loss, showing his ability to move the offense when the Bearcats needed to throw the ball.
French has also shown he can contribute without putting up large passing totals. Against No. 8 Texas Tech on October 24, he threw four touchdown passes in Cincinnati's 37-24 victory, despite finishing with only 172 passing yards. The Bearcats were able to take advantage of their scoring opportunities without needing French to carry the entire offense.
However, the season hasn't been perfect. French completed just 16 of 30 passes for 263 yards with an interception in Saturday's 49-25 loss to Utah. His completion percentage fell from 69.4% entering the game to its current 67.1%, illustrating how quickly those numbers can change.
With four regular-season games remaining, French has an opportunity to finish with one of Cincinnati's best statistical passing seasons. Maintaining his accuracy against Houston, Iowa State, Colorado, and BYU won't be easy.
Cincinnati's record hasn't reflected everything its offense has accomplished this season, but French's performance deserves recognition. His accuracy, combined with his ability to contribute as a runner, has made him an important part of the Bearcats' offensive success.
The next step is translating that production into more victories, beginning Saturday against No. 17 Houston.
