WVU Love in the UFL

Since we track the former Mountaineers in NFL I figure it's only fair to check out the boys in the UFL. I know most people have no idea what this league is, but WVU fans will notice that two of the more popular players of the late-2000s have found a place in the league. Here is the list. I'm sure I have missed one or two. CFL to come next!

Pat White, QB, Virginia: May get a good chance to play, considering he's battling Mike McMahon and Chris Greisen for the starting job.

Noel Devine, RB, Omaha: The recently-signed Devine joins a backfield with Maurice Clarett, Shaud Williams, and Marlon Lucky. What is this, 2006?

Antwon Lake, DL, Las Vegas: Was part of the 2010 UFL Champion Locomotives.

Todd Sauerbrun, P, ?: He is still listed as a Florida Tusker. That's a problem, because the Tuskers became the Virginia Destroyers. He is not listed on the Virginia roster.

YouTube Time: Geno Has Arrived

There's no doubt Geno Smith is a very good collegiate quarterback. He may even become a great pro quarterback. But, before the start of the 2010 season there was much speculation surrounding his play. All that speculation went out there door on September 10th.

Marshall was just eight minutes from their first ever win over WVU. Leading 21-6, the Herd were just about to ice it, when they fumbled in the red zone. That fumble led to one hell of a comeback. Geno Smith put together two of the finest fourth quarter drives in recent memory...one from 96-yards, the other from 98. Two touchdowns, an extra point, and a 2-point conversion later, we were headed to OT. WVU would eventually win in the extra frame, and a star was born.



This video shows how solid Smith is at the position. He has very good vision, a solid arm, and moves in the pocket well. Geno was getting absolutely blasted in that game, but kept making the throws. It will be scary to see him in the new Dana Holgorsen offense.

Quick note: Watch Noel Devine's vision on his touchdown run. It's quite a move to get in from where he was, and who was in front of him.

Noel Devine to Sign with Atlanta, errrr Philly

According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Noel Devine will sign with the Atlanta Falcons at 10AM today. The former Mountaineer rusher joins a busy backfield, including Michael Turner and Jacquizz Rodgers. However, it may look different in a few days with both Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling listed as free agents.

Devine was extremely productive during his time in Morgantown, and was a no doubt draft pick before injuries slowed him down. He tested well heading up to the draft, including a low of 4.36 in the 40. Ultimately, his questionable durability and small stature (5'8", 179lb) outweighed his ability, and wasn't drafted.

This is the ultimate "just give him a chance" situation. Devine will make it in this league, he just needs the chance...I'm just not so sure this is his best opportunity. It would be hard to believe that Atlanta is looking to keep Devine along with Rodgers. The players are similar in stature and style. And, you'd have to believe Rodgers already has a leg up in the competition considering he was a 5th round pick. It should be a fun battle, whatever the case may be.

Even if Devine's future isn't in the Dirty Dirty, it's a step in the door...a chance for him to prove he belongs. Expect the speedster to take full advantage of it.

UPDATE: According to HailWV.com and others, Devine has not signed with the Falcons just yet, and is listening to other offers. We will try to keep you posted.

UPDATE, UPDATE: Devine has inked a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. Not sure it's much better of a situation than the one in Atlanta. That is a jumbled backfield, so Devine will have to work to make this team.