Smith is WVU’s key in 2010

When West Virginia takes the field for the first time in 2010 against Coastal Carolina Sept. 4, it will do so with a relatively untested quarterback.

It will be the first time since 2005 that has happened in Morgantown.

With staples Pat White and Jarrett Brown gone, the job likely goes to true sophomore signal caller Geno Smith.

And there's a lot riding on him.

"I know … how much pressure is on me," Smith said. "It's a great thing. I'm in a great position, and I'm really looking forward to the season."

Smith played in five games last season, completing 32-of-49 passes for 309 yards and one touchdown in backup duty. He did have to play key roles in a win over Marshall and a losses against Auburn and Florida State when Brown went down with an injury.

"If he's feeling any pressure, he's not showing it," said starting center Joe Madsen.

Compared to the experience White and Brown had over the past four years, Smith lacks starting experience.

And it didn't help that Smith couldn't completely participate in spring drills after breaking a bone in his left foot for the second time in less than a year.

The team moved back spring practice to allow Smith to participate in some drills, but he was limited to throwing in pass skeleton.

"I really haven't had many injuries, so that's something I've had to adjust to," Smith said. "I'm completely 100 percent with everything in the weight room. I'm doing everything everyone else is doing, and I'm showing signs of improvement as the weeks go along."

He said there is no pain in his foot.

Smith has been leading the offense in 7-on-7 drills this summer and running the law school hill with them, as well.

"Geno is looking good throwing the ball, but he still has some developing to do," said WVU linebacker J.T. Thomas. "But that will come in time. The kid is only a sophomore."

In addition, Smith has practiced timing and routes with his receivers three times a week outside of regular 7-on-7 drills.

"Geno is coming along, and we are feeling each other out," said starting slot receiver Jock Sanders. "It's like it was with Jarrett and Pat. We know who our quarterback is with Geno, too. Everyone is starting to get into a rhythm."

Despite injury setbacks, it seems his teammates are placing their confidence in Smith. In fact, fellow sophomore Tavon Austin said the toughness Smith has shown in rehabbing his foot proves when times get tough in 2010 "he's going to push through for us."

Some have said Smith gained the team's respect before the rehab began.

"We are confident in Geno," said fullback Ryan Clarke. "He showed everyone he could step up last year. He is comfortable in the offense this year and he is comfortable with the skill players. He should have a great year this year."

Now, it's up to Smith to lead the offense, which outside the quarterback spot is one of the most veteran groups in the country. WVU returns its top rusher (Devine), and its top receiver (Sanders) alongside a plethora of experienced offensive linemen.

"Jock, Noel and those guys are guys who have been embedded in the offense for the last two and three years. They know what's going on," Thomas said. "You've got a lot of guys out there that have proven themselves, now it's just Geno having to find them. He doesn't have to do too much, just hand the ball off or get the ball in the right hands."

Smith is eager to prove himself to his team and Mountaineer Nation this fall – and erase the notion that an inexperienced quarterback is not necessarily

"A lot times guys may get the tendency to think you're weak if you're injured all the time," Smith said. "You just want to prove yourself. Once you get on the field, you have the ability to prove to your fellow players and coaches."