For USF's Blackwell, Future is Now?
(September 22, 1999)

After a three touchdown performance at Western Kentucky, University of South Florida quarterback Marquel Blackwell received honorable mention Rookie of the Week honors among Division I-AA independents. Thought to be the QB of the future, the future is now for the red-shirt freshman.

Chad Barnhardt provided stability at quarterback during the first two years of South Florida's football program. A transfer from the University of South Carolina, he brought experience and leadership to the new program.

Last season, when Chad Barnhardt suffered an injury, Glen Gauntt played some at quarterback. Following Barnhardt's graduation, Gauntt seemed to have the inside track on this season's starting job.

Gauntt, now a junior, did start the first game this season. The offensive line had trouble at San Diego State, the program's first Division I-A opponent, and Blackwell ended up seeing some action late in the game. When he threw a fourth quarter touchdown pass in a 41-12 defeat, the quarterback controversy was ignited.

Glen Gauntt again started the home opener against Southwest Texas State, but only lasted two series. Marquel Blackwell had a long touchdown run in a 17-10 victory. Blackwell started last week against Western Kentucky and threw three first half TD passes in a 21-6 victory, as USF defeated the Hilltoppers for the first time in three tries.

Now ranked sixteenth in the Sports Network poll, the Bulls have some tough games coming up in the pursuit of the Division I-AA playoffs. Next year the transition to Division I-A will begin, so this will be the last season as a full-fledged playoff eligible Division I-AA team.

This Saturday a tough test for the third year program awaits in Troy, Alabama against fifth ranked Troy State. A win would be a major step for the program and put the Bulls on the road to postseason play. The season closes against sixth ranked Hofstra, a team that spanked the Bulls pretty good last year. The playoffs may hinge on the outcome of that game at Raymond James Stadium. Two other ranked teams, number eleven Illinois State and number twenty-five Southern Illinois, will also come to Tampa this fall.

As a freshman, Marquel Blackwell may be the quarterback to carry the Bulls to full Division I-A status in 2001. Things wont get easier next season with games at Kentucky and at Baylor. However, if the Bulls are to make the playoffs this season, and there are some tough dates ahead, the future is now for Blackwell.