Spring football practices are over, and it would seem the Ducks would have one question answered — who will play quarterback.
But head coach Mike Bellotti has almost too much depth at the signal-calling position.
The surprise of Saturday’s spring football game came from the No. 3 quarterback hopefuls. In the second half, California natives Jason Fife and Orlando Evans led the green and white teams with first-stringers Joey Harrington and A.J. Feeley on the bench.
Fife instantly made an impact, leading the first-string green team to a touchdown and a field goal in two drives. Fife went 14 for 17 for 186 yards — one more total yard than Harrington — in the Ducks’ final spring game.
“He runs the offense really well,” wideout Keenan Howry said of the redshirt freshman’s performance. “It’s just a matter of time before he steps in and takes over the helm.”
Harrington, meanwhile, played well all spring including in Saturday’s scrimmage, and he seems the clear-cut No. 1 QB going into the fall. Harrington went eight of 10 for 185 yards and a touchdown.
More importantly, Harrington led only four drives Saturday, three of which resulted in scores.
“I feel a lot more confident [than last year],” Harrington said. “I’m a lot more consistent out there on the field.”
Feeley has been bothered by reoccurring arm problems, but nobody knows how much work he needs more than Feeley himself.
“All I’m worried about right now is taking care of myself and preparing my arm,” Feeley said after his three-for-10 performance on Saturday. “My goals for the fall are the same as they’ve always been, and that’s to be back at number one.”
Feeley may be shooting for No. 1, but nobody is questioning his No. 2 status — yet.
Competition brewing at quarterback spot
Daily Emerald
April 30, 2000
0
More to Discover