Who's the Next Cougar Quarterback?

For the past four years, University of Houston head football coach Art Briles had the comfort of knowing which quarterback would take the field to guide the Cougars’ potent offensive attack. However, this upcoming season is a much different story.

While senior running back Anthony Alridge, wide receiver Donnie Avery, and a host of other talented weapons return for UH this fall, Kevin Kolb, the most prolific passer in school history, will no longer be lined up under center for the Cougars. The former quarterback and Conference USA offensive MVP was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 36th pick in this year’s NFL draft, leaving Briles and his coaching staff with the daunting challenge of finding a new signal caller to begin the 2007 campaign.

“The quarterback position is wide open, but we’ll find a person that we can fit everything around,” Briles said.

The Cougars began fall practices earlier this month and currently three candidates are vying for the starting position. Sophomore Blake Joseph, senior Al Pena and redshirt freshman Case Keenum have each been splitting reps with the hopes of being named UH’s next quarterback.

“We have three guys who are really competitive and really have an opportunity to do a great job for us,” Briles said. “They are all intelligent, performing on the field with a great attitude.”

Which quarterback will actually emerge and help the Cougars defend their Conference USA championship? The answer may not come until next month’s season opener against the University of Oregon when either Joseph, Pena or Keenum trots onto the field. Until then, take an inside look at each quarterback.

Al Pena              Case Keenum             Blake Joseph

The Cougars open their 2007 schedule when they travel to the Northwest to meet the University of Oregon in a 2:30 p.m. (CDT) kickoff in Eugene. The Cougars will enjoy their first home game at the friendly confines of John O'Quinn Field at Robertson Stadium at 3:30 p.m., Sept. 22, against Colorado State.

For season tickets call 713-GO-COOGS or visit www.UHCougars.com.