Position: QuarterbackYear: Red Shirt*/FreshmanMajor: UndecidedHeight/Weight: 6-5/212Hometown: Jacksonville, FLHigh School: Sandalwood High School

Rusty Smith is in a dead-heat battle with Sean Clayton for the starting quarterback position. This feat is pretty amazing considering Smith is a freshman. Offensive coordinator Gary Nord is very fond of Smith, and FAU tends to build up younger players with game experience. Expect Nord to go with Smith for the starting position at quarterback. Even though Clayton is much more experienced and has a 1-1 record, the coaches favorite is Smith. During 2005 Smith traveled with the team and called offensive plays, working close with coaches. He had a very strong fall of practice, and after spring there was a feeling on the team that Smith could vie for the starting spot.Clayton runs the offense a bit more under control, but it seems that Smith throws the ball well. Smith is much more vocal and carries enthusiasm that FAU coaches crave. Rusty Smith will be the FAU starter for the next four years-that’s a given.