STRENGTHS
Quick-footed in his drops with an excellent feel in the pocket to step up and maneuver while keeping his eyes downfield...smart pre-snap reads and understands exactly where he wants to go with the ball, using his above average peripheral vision.
Good footwork and his bottom half always appears in sync with what's going on above the waist...quick eyes and sees the field well to work through his progressions and always know where his targets are supposed to be...balanced passer with a quick set-up and a snap delivery...good (not great) arm strength who understands touch, knowing when to add juice to his throws and when to take some off...poised in the pocket with a fearless attitude and accurate sense of what's going on around him...hangs tough and never gives up on plays.
Adequate build with very good toughness, bouncing up after hits...enough mobility to scramble and won't avoid contact as a runner...gutsy and not afraid to take chances...terrific accuracy (72.5% completions in 2012) and gives his target a chance to make a play...always appears calm, collected and in control of the offense...selfless personality with the preparation habits needed for the next level.
Ambitious and coachable with a strong work ethic...confident and persistent...versatile experience under center and in pistol and shotgun formations.
WEAKNESSES
Athletic, but only average speed and can be caught from behind by defenders...lacks elite arm strength and struggles to drive the ball on throws of 15+ yards...too many rainbows and not enough lasers, causing underthrown deep balls and allowing defenders to react and make a play on the ball.
Bad habit of throwing off-balance, causing his ball placement to waver...overconfident and too willing to throw into coverage and take chances, especially under duress...only average height and lacks elite size for the position...will predetermine passes at times and lock onto targets, even when covered...room to improve his ball security when scrambling...plays rushed at times.
Will have only two years of experience at the FBS-level.
IN OUR VIEW
Fales throws a pretty ball with his touch and anticipation, but lack of arm strength shows often, especially on throws of 15+ yards. He does an excellent job surveying the field to find an open target, seeing the field well with anticipation to make snap decisions. Fales will take chances downfield, leading to mistakes with his average arm strength. He is a quick release, rhythm passer with a high completion percentage in every outing.
Fales won't be a fit for everyone, but projects as a NFL starter and possible top-30 pick, ideally suited for a NFL west coast offense that emphasizes multiple options and quick decisions in the short-to-intermediate passing game.
--Dane Brugler, June 2013
