Smart is backup quarterback at Eastern

Thu., Sept. 15, 2005

The Spokesman-Review

A wide receiver a week ago, Alex Smart is now the backup quarterback for the fifth-ranked Eastern Washington football team.

“Alex is more prepared to run a huddle,” Eagles offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Beau Baldwin said. “It wasn’t all based on (physical performance).”

Freshman Matt Nichols beat out Smart, a redshirt freshman, to be the No. 3 quarterback, prompting coaches to move Smart to receiver just before the first game. But in the opener at San Jose State, backup Chris Peerboom injured the index finger on his right hand. After waiting a couple of days to assess the injury, Peerboom, a redshirt sophomore, had surgery to repair the tendon.

Smart moved back to quarterback and resumed competition with Nichols to back up senior Erik Meyer.

–Dave Trimmer, Staff writer

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Smart is backup quarterback at Eastern

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

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