Lighter, Healthier Leidner Looks Toward Better 2016
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- When Mitch Leidner watches himself on TV, he can't help but wince.
"It's just like, 'geez,' you know? 'That was rough,'" Leidner said with a laugh.
He's talking about his throwing mechanics, which were messed up the last two years as Leidner played through torn ligaments in his foot.
"I think Peyton Manning talks about all the time (how) when your legs aren't cooperating with your upper body, that's when your accuracy becomes affected," said Leidner, who finally got the ligaments surgically repaired this offseason.
Other than Joe Mauer, there might not be another athlete in this town more polarizing than Leidner, whose inconsistent play as the Gophers starting quarterback the last couple years has, at times, had fans pulling their hair out.
But there's a strong belief on campus that that's all about to change.
Imagine you're a 250 pound quarterback who not only likes to run, but likes to run over linebackers – except you're in major pain every time you take a step. Leidner believes that was a big part of what limited his effectiveness last season. And now that it's no longer an issue, he's excited about how good he can be.
"To go out there and be able to jump around, have fun and just enjoy the moment," he said. "Because you're trying to have fun, at the same time it's like, 'Holy cow, this thing's bothering me.'"
He's also not 250 pounds anymore. He lost 20 pounds this offseason for even more mobility. And though his coach doesn't want him to change the way he plays, he does want him to be smart about not getting hurt again.
"If it comes down to a 3rd-and-1 for us to keep the ball and that's what it takes," Tracy Claeys said, "then I want him running over the top of a linebacker. You know, keep the chains moving. But I also think you have to manage how many hits he takes, there's no question."
Because there's no question a better Leidner would be a big deal.