Hooker: Two QB system not practical

The two-quarterback system is like a shiny, red sports car. It seems to have everything: plenty of speed, great command of the road, and it drives the ladies wild.

Then, you realize there's just not enough space. The novelty wears off. And it's time to invest in that everyday car that will best serve you in the future.

Soon, UT coaches will know which of their quarterbacks will lead them into the future. Once that time comes, space will be a luxury item the Vols can't afford.

Space on the football field is determined by game repetitions, snaps per se. Real game snaps are the best way for any player to improve, especially a quarterback.

It's hard to say who will be the most productive signal caller. Brent Schaeffer is the fast, athletic gunslinger who is always looking deep downfield. Erik Ainge is a pocket passer with a quick release, fantastic vision, and surprising athletic ability.

Their differing styles are probably the most intriguing aspect of the quandary. They seem like they would be a perfect complement to each other.

Problem is neither appears to be a complement to anyone. So far, both are the types of players to lead programs to wins and championships. They're both fastballs, not change-ups.

Their differing styles would, indeed, make it tough on opposing defenses. That's fine for the short term. If either ends up as good as his potential suggests, defenses will have a tough enough time preparing.

Once the distinction has been made, a decision must be made. The better of the two will deserve substantially more playing time. The program deserves his subsequent improvement.

Think of the difference 30 to 40 snaps per game will make in a quarterback's development: more confidence, wide range of exposure to varying defensive schemes, and the faith among his teammates that he is the unquestioned leader of the offense.

The crux of the matter is the importance of a strong leader at one of the most important levels of the football hierarchy. No one automatically looks to the defensive tackle for leadership. Everyone looks to the quarterback.

Other position players can be great leaders. Quarterbacks must be great leaders.

Fans harbor hope that the Vols will retain both for four years and playing time will keep both in Knoxville. No way. Both on campus beyond 2004 is doubtful.

Schaeffer and Ainge will be able to tell who has surpassed the other. When that time comes, it's time to fill out the transfer papers.

Neither will sit behind the other for three years. It is far more likely that the two will start a combined 70+ games at two different schools than split 40+ at UT.

UT coach Phillip Fulmer said it best when he refused to refer to his quarterback situation as a problem. There are over 100 other programs that would gladly accept the Vols' quarterback dilemma.