Gillis looks like a completely different quarterback as a senior, and that’s reflected in his movement, as he was our biggest stock-riser in the update. It’s not just the numbers–though there’s been marked statistical improvement–but how comfortable he looks at this stage. He’s being more decisive as a passer and a runner, having already eclipsed last year’s yardage and touchdown numbers. He’s gone from a potential walk-on spot to a guy we think could start early at the Division II or Division III level.

Gillis is a guy we’ve watched for a couple of years and though we didn’t initially bump him from the watchlist to the rankings this offseason, we made the decision to move him up ahead of what could be a great season for the senior. He really struggled early last season, but is a guy who probably wanted the season to continue following a five-game stretch with a 9-to-0 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

Gillis is a guy who could probably have made our rankings by now as he’s right on the cutoff. He started in a slump in the non-conference last season before turning it on during the conference slate with nine touchdowns and just two interceptions in his last six games. When he takes care of the ball he has the ability to lead his team to victory with a strong arm and improving accuracy.