Battle for backup QB is on at FAMU

Jonathan Pillow, RS 6'-0"/200 lbs., freshman transfer from University of Maryland; signed as defensive back by Terps from Jacksonville, FL Mandarin High School. Pillow completed 130 of 236 passes in 2008/09 for 1538 yards, 12 touchdowns and 10 interception as the starter for the 7-3 Mustangs.

They both have the same goal as the preseason approaches for the Florida A&M football team — Austin Trainor and Jonathan Pillow want to win the backup role at quarterback. Their attitude is a little different, though. Trainer, who is in his second season with the program, is a little more assertive and full of confidence. Pillow, who was on the University of Maryland's football team last season but didn't play a down, is taking a wait-and-see approach. That was enough for coach Joe Taylor to offer this assessment:

"It's going to be interesting now when camp starts as to who gets the backup. It's all about getting reps." With Martin Ukpai having locked down the starting quarterback spot, both of the freshmen are poised to go after the second spot that is still up for grabs. Senior Eddie Battle came out of spring camp as the favorite backup, but has missed most of the offseason 7-on-7 drills.

Trainor would definitely have the edge because of his experience in FAMU's offense. But he realizes Pillow and potentially one or more of the incoming freshmen could make the competition tough. "Nobody is going to give me (anything) unless I take it for myself," said Trainor, who spent the past few months putting on muscle and working on his speed. "I feel a little more confident these months we have had off."

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