Vickers To Start at Quarterback For Chippewas

Aug. 27, 2002

MOUNT PLEASANT -- Derrick Vickers has been named Central Michigan University's starting quarterback for Thursday's season opener at home against Sam Houston State University (7:30 p.m.).

As the starter, CMU head coach Mike DeBord is looking for more out of his 5-11, 190-pound junior from Pace High in Miami, Fla.

"It's a critical year for Derrick," DeBord said. "He has to take his game to the next level. He has to work hard at being more consistent."

Vickers started the final five games of the 2000 season and the first seven of the 2001 campaign before an injury sidelined him.

He's completed 199-of-391 passes for 2,215 yards and 14 touchdowns.

"All of the quarterbacks competed for the job," DeBord said. "Derek Gorney was the leader this summer and pushed the group."

Unfortunately for the 6-2, 200-pound Gorney, a senior from Chippewa Valley High, he sprained an ankle last week in practice.

"Derek is an excellent leader and competitor who knows the position," DeBord said.

Gorney started the final four games in 2001, completing 74 passes in 150 attempts for 831 yards and five scores.

With Gorney sidelined, sophomore Grant Arnoldink (Holland/West Ottawa) and redshirt freshman Kent Smith (Toledo, Ohio/Start) moved into more prominent roles in practice as potential No. 2s.

"They're two young but talented quarterbacks who are still learning the position," DeBord said. "They're improving all the time."

Providing depth are junior Darren Tooley (Lake Orion) and sophomore Jeff Perry (Apple Valley, Cal./Silverado).

**Redshirt freshman wide receiver Scott Gibson (Jefferson, Wis.) suffered a broken collarbone in practice over the weekend, and will be out from six-to-eight weeks.

The 6-3, 185-pounder worked his way into a backup role this fall.

Taking his spot will be sophomore walk-on Nick Thompson (Menominee).