But when junior Chad Barnhardt learned late Monday he would become South Florida's first starting quarterback, he didn't gloat, shout or jump for joy. That wouldn't be the low-key Barnhardt's style.

Barnhardt won't even talk about what he does well, or what might have won him the job over sophomore Lance Hoeltke. But with the battle over, at least for this week's inaugural game against Kentucky Wesleyan, the transfer from South Carolina did allow a tiny - very tiny - bit of enthusiasm to creep into his voice at the prospect of leading the Bulls' wide-open offense.

Until Barnhardt's arrival, Hoeltke - a starter as a freshman at Austin Peay in 1995 - looked liked a sure No. 1. Teammates warmed to Hoeltke's outgoing personality, and during spring drills he was elected one of four captains.