Competition is on at FAMU for quarterback

FAMU senior quarterback Eddie Battle is a strong and smart competitor. Don't count Battle out, yet!

After Martin Ukpai's spectacular performance in the Florida Classic last season, the consensus has been that the sophomore established himself as the front-runner in what should amount to a three-player battle for Florida A&M starting quarterback job. He gets his shot at proving that wrong or right beginning Monday when the Rattlers open spring practice. Ukpai will face off against senior Eddie Battle and Austin Trainer, who showed a strong arm last season with the practice squad.

Battle played sparingly behind Kentucky transfer Curtis Pulley, but Ukpai made a strong case that he might actually be the one to beat after leading FAMU to a one-sided win over Bethune-Cookman. But FAMU coach Joe Taylor said Ukpai won't be a shoo-in to replace Pulley. Every effort, from warm-up to on-the-field drills, by the three quarterbacks will be evaluated, Taylor said. "It's going to be an open situation, but as coaches we are going to have to really evaluate it accurately; just look at who is under center and what's happening with the offense," Taylor said. "The best way is to let them separate themselves. That's why it's so good to have spring football.

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