Spring Football Countdown- 10 Days

Is the photo above a sign of things to come? Will Mike Hartline and Ryan Mossakowski watch Morgan Newton in 2010? Something tells me we won't know until fall camp. The staff will likely keep the competition fierce into August. They want these guys pushing each other everyday. The Quarterback competition will be the talk of the camp. Honestly, I'm more concerned about other topics. With that said, I'm going to state reasons each guy will win the starting job.

Mike Hartline is a Senior and has the most game experience. Until now, Mike hasn't had to earn a starting job. After Curtis Pulley's departure, the starting job fell in his hands. He never wowed anyone, but really seemed to be on his way when he was injured at South Carolina last season. Hartline made some good plays as a Sophomore including the win against Arkansas and played well in the Liberty Bowl (2009). No doubt if Rich Brooks was the head coach, Hartline would be the favorite.

Morgan Newton took over the reins when Mike Hartline was injured. Newton was able to beat out Will Fidler for the starting job and showed flashes of why he was so highly recruited out of high school. However, at times (and expected) Newton played like a freshman and made some bad decisions. Overall, most feel Newton played very well as he led UK to some key wins in 2009. In my opinion, Newton played well enough to be named the starter heading into spring practice. He has a full year under his belt and should know what the staff is looking for in terms of game management and has already earned the respect of his teammates.

Ryan Mossakowski was a higher rated Quarterback coming out of high school than Newton if you can imagine that. Similar to Newton, Moss was a redshirt due to his injury, but more because he needed to learn the playbook. Based on reports, the staff has been very impressed with Ryan's decision making ability which could earn him the starting job. He will need to show his arm strength is back this spring while showing his understanding of the offense.

In the end, the staff has a great problem with three Quarterbacks who can compete in the SEC. The one thing UK Quarterback's must do in 2010 is take a few chances down the field. We are 10 days away from learning more about these three players and I'm like a kid counting down the days until Christmas! GO CATS!