Freshman quarterback may yet lead Rockets

10/1/2007

It's likely that for the second straight year, a true freshman will start at quarterback for the University of Toledo.

A UT football spokesman said sophomore Aaron Opelt and junior Clint Cochran are doubtful for Saturday's game at home against Liberty after both suffered injuries against Western Michigan.

Freshman D.J. Lenehan is first on the updated depth chart, with another true freshman, Travaris Cadet, listed second.

Lenehan played for the first time this season Saturday, replacing Cochran for the final 10 minutes, 46 seconds of the game. The Rockets' three quarterbacks combined to complete 9-of-23 passes for 158 yards.

Lenehan, 6-foot-3, 190 pounds from Easton, Pa., has spent the season thus far as the third-team quarterback and has gotten limited snaps with the first team during practice. Cadet had served as the scout team quarterback.

The Rockets (1-4) only have four quarterbacks on their roster. Opelt (lower leg injury) and Cochran (shoulder injury) did not practice yesterday.

One of the most prolific passers in Pennsylvania high school history, Lenehan threw three deep passes Saturday, displaying a strong arm. None were caught, but WMU was called for pass interference on two of them. Lenehan led the Rockets to a late touchdown.

Last year Opelt became the first true freshman in 23 years to start at QB for the Rockets.