Aside from the worst officiating I’ve ever seen at a basketball game (an embarrassment to the NIT), the other news today is the beginning of spring football practice.

This spring brings a somewhat unusual challenge to the Virginia Tech sideline; filling holes from so many star Seniors. I caught you there didn’t I? You assume the most important question is who will start at quarterback in the fall. Unfortunately, the fact is that the defense lost several key players and will need some 2008 starters to fill some big shoes.

The biggest question mark appears the be in the line backing corps. Losing both Adibi and Hall, Tech’s tandem for several years, will be the biggest weakness that needs filled. The defensive tackle position is also looking for someone with big feet. After several years of defensive domination, the Hokies may need a less stagnant offense to rack up the wins.

Unfortunately, Tech lost all of its starting receivers and finally kicked Ore off the team. So the real question is, who will Tyrod throw and hand the ball to in 2008? In fact the coaching staff is so confused at the moment that Macho is listed as a wide receiver.

At running back, both K-lew and Cheeseman look capable and occasionally explosive. We were cheering for K-lew all last season to take the starting spot from Brandon “the slower, come to camp out of shape, can’t hit a hole” Ore. The competition should be good for both backs and perhaps some freshmen to land the starting spot.

Perhaps the big news that will be carried by the networks is whether Tyrod Taylor or Glennon will get the starting quarterback spot. Unfortunately for Glennon, Tyrod Taylor is far more athletic, confident, and capable to run this team in 2008.

Not only would I like to see Tyrod start because I run this website, but his pocket presence, and not-so-pocket presence, exudes the confidence I want to see in the person snapping the ball. Tyrod is the future of this program and regardless of Glennon’s spring performance, Tyrod Taylor must be given the experience needed to successfully carry the football team for several more years.

Beamerball.com has posted a script of an interview with Tyrod; myself and those I have spoken with at SpitzerTailgate.com have been very impressed with his responses.

In particular, the following quotes show the attitude Hokie fans want on and off the field.

My goal is to emerge from this spring the starting quarterback at Virginia Tech.

I’m not really all that concerned about the uniforms. If you play well, the uniforms will look good. If you don’t play well, they’ll look bad.

Do you think you are mentally and physically prepared to lead this Team into battle, every down, with a positive result?

Sure I do. You have to have confidence in your abilities to succeed at whatever you do. I think you have to make sure that you’re prepared. I’m working hard to be prepared. And, that will allow me to be confident on the field.

See the full interview here, credit to Beamerball.com for publishing the free script of the live chat.