If you're looking to place a bet on Virginia's starting quarterback for this Saturday's game against No. 6 Virginia Tech, don't expect any help from Virginia coach George Welsh.
At a press conference yesterday, Welsh offered only sparse commentary regarding who would start Saturday.
On senior quarterback Dan Ellis, who sat out the last game with an injured hamstring, Welsh said, "I don't know how he is or how he's going to be. If he were 100 percent, I would probably start him."
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Welsh's alternative is redshirt freshman Bryson Spinner, who had an impressive game against N.C. State last Saturday. Spinner's highlights included a third-quarter 68-yard touchdown pass to sophomore receiver Billy McMullen, Virginia's longest pass this season, and a 61-yard run off the option in the first quarter.
"For the first time in a long time, we have a quarterback that - when he does keep it - is dangerous with the ball in his hand," Welsh said. "We did it with some other quarterbacks, but this kid is more dangerous."
But whomever Welsh chooses to face the Hokies will struggle to be noticed in the media glare surrounding Virginia Tech quarterback Michael Vick.
Vick is the center of an aggressive Heisman Trophy campaign after a stellar freshman season that saw him post 1,840 passing yards, 585 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns.
However, Vick suffered a high ankle sprain against Pittsburgh Oct. 28. Virginia Tech coach Frank Beamer said Vick likely will be back to face Virginia.
"I think he's the most dangerous quarterback in the country," Welsh said. "Absolutely. Bar none. He's dangerous because he improvises and you can't catch him. I've never seen a quarterback run that fast in my whole career. Defensive backs can't catch him."
Cavalier junior safety Devon Simmons disagreed.
"I'm not that big on Michael Vick," Simmons said. "He's just another quarterback we have to prepare for just like we would anyone else."
Virginia Tech will also look to its offensive line and sophomore tailback Lee Suggs, who had five touchdowns against UCF.
As for the pressure Virginia faces to grab its 14th straight seven-win season, Welsh said, "It's the seventh win, but that's still not a big deal. But it's the in-state rivalry and it's bragging rights and it's the last game of the season."
His players feel more urgency. Said Simmons: "We need to win"
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