Battle For Backup Goes On

Posted Apr 12, 2009 by Katherine Smith

Updated Apr 12, 2009 at 12:17 AM

B.J. Daniels and Evan Landi each made a compelling case Saturday night to be Matt Grothe’s backup.

Both redshirt freshman quarterbacks had their moments in the Green and White Game. Daniels led to the Green team to a 21-20 victory in front of about 5,000 people at Raymond James Stadium.

Daniels finished the night 11-of-19 for 181 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Landi was 20-of-30 for 189 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Grothe saw minimal action, playing in just two series in the first half. Grothe completed three-of-four passes for 26 yards.

Offensive coordinator Mike Canales praised both young quarterbacks, but said they are far from naming a backup just yet.

“It will be a battle,” Canales said. “We want them to compete. We don’t want one of them to get settled and be comfortable. These guys are going to push Matt Grothe. I don’t think they look at it that just because Matt’s a senior he’s got it wrapped up. They’re going to compete.

“They are pushing each other and making each other better.”

Receiver Dontavia Bogan was one of Daniels favorite targets. He had a game high 105 receiving yards, including a 46-yard touchdown catch and run. Ed Alcin led the White team with eight receptions for 74 yards.

Defensively, both teams applied a lot of pressure and amassed six combined sacks, including three by senior defensive tackle Aaron Harris. The defenses also collected four turnovers.

You can read more about Saturday night’s Spring game here.