Vandals Stock Up On Quarterbacks
The big question following Idaho’s 1996 football season: Who was going to succeed Ryan Fien at quarterback?
That question remains, but the number of possible answers has increased.
Senior-to-be Brian Brennan, a part-time starter in the past, is doing well rehabilitating his shoulder. Brennan had wondered if his career was in jeopardy after shoulder surgery last year. Now, he’ll likely be No. 1 going into spring football.
“He’s improving daily,” trainer Barrie Steele said. “Most of what he’s doing is strength work for his shoulder and general conditioning. He’s on a throwing program, gradually increasing his reps and distances and speed on the ball.”
Ed Dean, who returned this semester after a two-year Mormon mission, probably will be No. 2 entering spring drills in early April.
“We’ll see how he does in spring,” offensive coordinator George Yarno said. “Coach (Greg) Olson thinks highly of him and says he has a lot of ability.”
There are two other newcomers. Freshman John Welsh brings good credentials. After high school, he played at Millford (Conn.) Academy, a prep school which faces teams such as Army’s JV. However, the playing experience doesn’t cost him collegiate eligibility and he still could redshirt this fall. Welsh already is attending UI.
Shon Piel, a transfer from Idaho State, adds another arm.
Post Falls’ Darick Pope, who was Fien’s backup last year, might be moved to tight end if he doesn’t have a strong spring.
If nobody emerges, UI still has the option of using Robert Scott, the talented wide receiver with a fine throwing arm, back at quarterback.
Recruiting news
Idaho has received an oral commitment from Johnny George, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound linebacker from Edison High in Miami. George still hasn’t qualified academically, but his coach, Earnest Perkins, said that shouldn’t be a problem.
George, who might be one of UI’s top incoming recruits, was all-Dade County and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.65 seconds.
The Vandals landed their fourth player from North Idaho when Moscow High lineman Drew Owen, 6-foot-7 and 285 pounds, orally committed.
Owen was second-team All-North Idaho and A-2 first-team all-state.
, DataTimes