There's a good possibility UNLV will have its fifth different starting quarterback over the last five years when it opens its 2008 season at home against Utah State on Aug. 30. But unlike the first three seasons under head coach Mike Sanford, that necessarily isn't a bad thing.

The Rebels (2-10, 1-7) had to scramble with two unproven freshmen a year ago when returning starter Rocky Hinds went down at the start of fall camp with another ACL injury. Redshirt freshman Travis Dixon started a season-opening 23-16 win at Utah State plus nine other games, and walk-on freshman Omar "The Playmaker" Clayton started the other three games before going down with a broken hand.

Both Dixon and Clayton battled it out in spring practice for the starting job, and both looked much improved and much more comfortable operating Sanford's Shotgun Spread offense.

Although Clayton appeared to have a slight edge after completing 9 of 11 passes for 108 yards, no interceptions and two touchdowns in the Spring Game, Sanford said he would not name his starting quarterback until fall camp.

"I think both of them did some good things in the spring but we are going to carry that competition over into fall camp," Sanford said. "We will make a decision after about seven to nine days of camp and have a starter. The good thing is that we will have two guys that can play and have started games, which is a real plus."

And if the Rebels get hit hard with injuries at the position, talented redshirt freshman Mike Clausen and strong-armed senior Dack Ishii will be waiting in the wings.

The quarterback battle actually took a backseat much of the spring to the much-improved play of new defensive coordinator Dennis Therrell's attacking 4-3 defense. The line, led by tackles Jacob Hales and Malo Taumua, was especially impressive.

"We have more players in this program that are capable of being Division I players than we've had in the last three years," Sanford said. "I like the attitude of our team. Our team enjoys being together and it's a very positive environment at practice. The leadership of our team is improving. Guys care about each other. They are trying to help each other and coach each other."

With a favorable schedule that includes a rare seven home games, don't be surprised if the Rebels cause more than a few headaches in Mountain West Conference play this year.

Copyright (C) 2008 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.