Should Coen Start?

What�s football without a quarterback controversy? UMass has a full blown controversy running now.

Tim Day, our starting quarterback threw four interceptions against Colgate. He lead the A10 with 17 interceptions last year.

Coach Brown has stuck with his senior QB through throughout. When Day had to come out of the Colgate game with a rib injury, Brown sent in Red Shirt Freshman Liam Coen.

Coen did well. He was 20-35-1-193 for the game. Remember, he was in a hurry up offense during his entire stint.

In high school, Coen was the Gatorade Player-of-the-Year in Rhode Island, Super Prep All Region and All State his senior year. He had career totals of 5,335 yds and 66 Tds.

The Springfield Union thinks Coen should start. So does the Hampshire Gazette (registration required).

Remembering that I was actually at the game, I agree. Coen looked nervous on his first couple of series. He did throw an interception in his own right. However, he looked more and more in control as the game progressed. He even caught a pass for 18 yards on a nifty halfback option play.

I think he has earned his chance. Albany would be a good time to get him some game experience.

And we need some help on offense. UMass has only averaged 16 points/game against two not very good teams.

The image to the right is a UMass athletic dept photo. Photographer is not listed.