It's not easy being green. Already taken? It's a song, right? Well, the Big 12 Conference features seven sophomore and freshmen quarterbacks in 2006, including several whose performances so far have contradicted those famous lyrics. Beware of young guys with rifles as arms and shoulders already broad enough to help carry league teams to success. These talents are going to be around here for a while.

Take Oklahoma State sophomore Bobby Reid, for example. After appearing in seven games and making five starts in 2005, all the 6-foot-3, 225-pounder has done this season is boast a Big 12-leading passer rating (177.7), which ranks No. 3 nationally. Described by Mike Gundy as being "timid" at times a year ago, Reid now bursts with confidence. That was most evident when he posted a school-record 457 total yards in a stunning 42-32 win at Kansas (Oct. 14).

Reid was knocked out of action in a 34-33 loss in overtime to Texas A&M last Saturday, but watch out. He'll be back at home against No. 20 Nebraska this weekend.

"He remains calm and plays well," Gundy said. "That's what we hope to see from him in the future."

Reid broke one school record. Several other young guns have either already established a mark or two, or are closer to doing so with four games remaining in the regular season.

...More... To continue reading this article you must be a member. Sign Up Now for a FREE Trial