Should Will Stein start against West Virginia?

Yes.

Although one or both of our former first-stringers should be available to play against West Virginia, Coach Kragthorpe has suggested that any of his three quarterbacks could start Saturday; he further hinted that the starter would be announced Thursday. On a side note, Krags made a comment referring to his job status that -- I have to admit -- was amusing:

"I was actually talking to Jon Gruden. He wanted to know how tall Will Stein was... I said 5-foot-7 on a good day."

Hey, give credit where it is due -- that was kind of funny... also interesting how much acclaim the candid comment has received. But I digress.

Will Stein should get the nod, for three reasons. First, he earned it based on the substance of his performance alone. As the article suggests, he outperformed our other two QBs in their first starts. As has been noted at Card Game, during the first half of Arkansas State, Stein moved the offense as well as it has moved all season.

Second, Stein's story is the last positive, semi-inspirational publicity this year's football squad will receive. By the most objective of standards, it is not fathomable to say that Louisville is still playing for a winning record or a postseason bid (those who think we will close the season with a four-game winning streak, please raise your hands). Elfish Will Stein is the only great story we can anticipate, with the potential even to receive national attention if the Cards can give the Mountaineers a run for their money.

Third, Stein grew up in Louisville and played at Trinity High School. He is a hometown hero and owns a few Kentucky state high school passing records. In short, he has local pull. If the program wants to avoid another fan no-show, then it needs to invest in an angle that will pique local interest. Not only should Stein start against West Virginia, but he should also start against Syracuse at Papa John's on Nov. 14 (assuming West Virginia is not a complete disaster). Further, the athletic department would be well-advised to promote the game (and I'm getting ahead of myself here) as Stein's Start -- the chance for, of all things, a diminutive walk-on, a former Trinity standout and a Louisville native to end our embarrassing losing streak to Syracuse. Make it relevant, make it personal. Make it feel important.

If, against the Mountaineers, Stein can't make it happen after a half or even a quarter, then send in Froman or Burke. Heck, Krags, play 'em all if you think it will keep the Mountaineers off balance (and since you subscribe to the theory that opposing defenses can't prepare if they don't know your starting quarterback in advance, it shouldn't be much of a stretch). The argument against is that multiple quarterbacks mess with the offense's rhythm and chemistry, but I wouldn't accuse our offense of having any of that anyway.

So screw it. What's left to lose? Send short-fry out there, and see how his height measures against his heart.