Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, March 27, 1993 TAG: 9303270054
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: DOUG DOUGHTY STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
This year, people can believe him.
Unlike last year, when Bobby Goodman had the benefit of two starts during the 1992 season, no quarterback on UVa's current roster has started a game for the Cavs.
It's the least experience Virginia has had at quarterback since 1984, when Welsh had to choose between Don Majkowski, Kevin Ferguson and Scott Secules.
"We have to take a look at everybody, including [redshirt freshman] Tim Sherman," said Welsh, who will give the public a rare look at the team this morning in an open practice.
The Cavaliers, who began practice Wednesday, will conduct an autograph session from 10:15-10:45, with practice to follow from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. UVa is scheduled to end spring practice April 17 with an open scrimmage.
Rising sophomores Symmion Willis and Mike Groh each received playing time last year in relief of Goodman, although Welsh will look at Sherman, son of UVa receivers coach Tom Sherman, and junior B.J. Hawkins, a former high-school All-American.
"We'll leave [Hawkins at quarterback] till it works out or it doesn't," Welsh said. "He has indicated he doesn't want to work to another position.
"I told him, `We know how you feel, but you've got to produce. We feel you've got a lot of talent, but you weren't as good as the players we had in front of you.' "
Another big gap was left by all-time UVa rushing leader Terry Kirby, although Jerrod Washington and Kevin Brooks rushed for a combined 885 yards last season. They are the only true tailbacks in the program.
"You're always going to need a third tailback," Welsh said. "Some years you need four, like the year [1988] when Nikki Fisher had to play as a freshman."
Redshirt freshman Darryl Medley, recruited as a fullback, will get a tryout at tailback. So will another 1992 recruit, Sam McKiver, who probably will get his first look on defense.
Welsh said it is possible that signees Tiki Barber from Cave Spring High in Roanoke and Antonio Procise from Sussex Central may play as true freshmen.
The only position change of note involves John Slocum, a 6-foot-7, 300-pound back-up defensive lineman in the fall who will move to offense.
by CNB