USF won't commit to one quarterback

[Jim Johnson]

From the Orlando Sentinel:

USF won't commit to one quarterback

Kyle Hightower |  Sentinel Staff Writer

Posted September 15, 2006

If dealing with the 19th-ranked rushing offense in the nation isn't enough of a challenge for UCF's defense this week against USF, the Golden Knights also have to prepare for the possibility of facing multiple quarterbacks.

USF Coach Jim Leavitt said redshirt freshman Matt Grothe will start Saturday, but he left open the possibility of different quarterbacks.

"Matt will start this week, but we'll try to keep all four ready," Leavitt said. "I know that I include all four of them [Grothe, Pat Julmiste, Grant Gregory and Anthony Severino], but I really mean that."

Julmiste, the only other USF quarterback to take a snap this season, started the Bulls' opening victory against McNeese State, but sat against Florida International in favor of Grothe.

UCF Coach George O'Leary said Grothe and Julmiste have impressed him on film.

"They put in that redshirt freshman [last week], and he did a really nice job," O'Leary said. "Basically, he made plays when he had to make them."

Watch for penalties

If Saturday's game is close, the X-factor could be penalties.

USF is fourth nationally in penalty yards per game (87) and tied for sixth in penalties per game (9.0). UCF, which averaged 63.3 penalty yards a year ago, so far has played a lot cleaner, averaging just 20 penalty yards a game (tied for 91st in the nation).

Knights 'hungry'

UCF sophomore TB Kevin Smith had his worst game last season against USF: two carries, no yards. He's looking to erase that bad memory.

"I think we're hungry," Smith said. "You don't want to say revenge, but in most people's heart, that is what it would be with how they beat us last year.

"We want to keep our home streak alive [uCF hasn't lost a regular-season home game since Nov. 23, 2004]."

[T-Man]

We have not heard the end of PJ I will predict that he still has a few drives left in him...  I have become a big PJ fan over the last two weeks... He is a true leader anyone who watches the sideline knows what I am talking about... The next time PJ does come in I predict he will lead us to victory...  Yes I still think Matt is the  starter but if he needs to come out I think PJ will respond in a positive way..

[Guest]

"Julmiste, the only other USF quarterback to take a snap this season, started the Bulls' opening victory against McNeese State, but sat against Florida International in favor of Grothe. "

Actually, Grant Gregory played during McNeese State as well... and Severino is the holder, so he's taken snaps - just not at QB.

[WoolyBully]

Aint no such thing as totin' too many weapons.

[BULLfreak]

GOL hopes we play PJ it gives him the best chance to win  ;D

[beastiebull]

Aint no such thing as totin' too many weapons.

yeh.   We're totin' a rubber band, a wet noodle, a feather, and one of those retractable plastic knives.  

[Guest JulmisteForPrez]

I have become a big PJ fan over the last two weeks... He is a true leader anyone who watches the sideline knows what I am talking about...

I certainly am happy with the way he has displayed a team concept.  But someone please tell me how his demeanor on the sideline has ANYTHING whatsoever to do with the way we KNOW he will perform if he ever gets back onto the field.  He's had the last THREE YEARS to show his stuff..........and he's sure shown it, alright!

Seems like a great guy, but he never was and never will be even a decent QB.  Stats and video don't lie!

[E.T.]

Ready to SPANK ucf !

Here's hoping PJ gets some time with a blowout victory.

Go BULLS !!!

[alau255]

"We want to keep our home streak alive [uCF hasn't lost a regular-season home game since Nov. 23, 2004]."

[E.T.]

And then they will be happy about their Home Conference winning streak  8-)