The chase is on to fill Smith’s shoes

By Eric Chaloux  |   Saturday, May 06, 2006  |  Comments( 1 )

Missouri Tigers
Got something to say?

Log In above and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans!

During four seasons at quarterback, Brad Smith heard the friendly chants of M-I-Z-Z-O-U around Faurot Field in Columbia, MO. Now, it will be replaced with sounds of J-E-T-S in the Meadowlands. Smith was drafted by New York as a wide receiver in the 4th round of the NFL Draft on Sunday. For those in Tiger Country it was a moment they knew would come but hoped and prayed it wouldn't, as it meant Brad Smith was no longer a Tiger.

It doesn't seem that long ago when MU fans first heard his name announced over the PA system. It was back in 2001, during a game in St. Louis when Smith started his career with a bang, blowing out the Illinois Illini. It was a nice ride for the Black and Gold as #16 became the first quarterback in NCAA history to pass for more than 8,000 yards and rush for more than 4,000 yards. Those stats helped ease the pain of losing some big games to rivals like KU and Nebraska along the way and missing out on postseason play.

The Missouri Tigers just released its tentative preseason depth chart and there are 4 players listed as candidates for Smith's old job. Two Columbia, MO natives are right in the chase even before the ball is snapped in camp. Sophomore Chase Daniel got in some work last season during some crucial games for Missouri. He looks to be the twinkle in coach Gary Pinkel's eyes for the starter job. At times last season, the 6-1, 215 pound quarterback seemed to have trouble seeing over the line. Then there is 6 foot-5 inch, 220 pound sophomore Chase Patton who has a shot at the backup spot. Senior Brandon Coleman (a 6-4, 215 lbs. QB from Miami, FL) and redshirt freshman Dan Barnes will also look to impress Tiger coaches in camp looking to fill Smith's shoes as two-a-days begin in August.

Mizzou's Pinkel knows all of Tiger Country will be watching to see who starts and who backs up as Tiger QB. It's a do or die season for Pinkel as he fights to keeps his job as the Tigers' Head Coach.
Got something to say?

Log In and share your thoughts on this topic with other fans! (1)

Article Tools Share!   |  RSS  |  Bleacher Report About Bleacher Report