Perhaps the most effective way to place quarterback Gino Guidugli's debut into perspective for a University of Cincinnati sports fan is to compare it to basketball. Imagine that Steve Logan had scored 30 points and delivered the game-winning shot in his first game as a freshman. Think how excited UC fans would be over that.

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        Now you know why those associated with the UC football program had an extra bounce in their step Sunday as they reviewed Guidugli's performance in Saturday's come-from-behind 24-21 victory over Army.

        Playing in relief of senior Adam Hoover, who left the game late in the first quarter with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, Guidugli completed 31 of 41 passes for 311 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winner to wide receiver Tye Keith with seven seconds remaining.

        “We felt like he was ready to go,” UC coach Rick Minter said of Guidugli. “He was going to play anyway, probably in the first half. We just didn't hesitate at all. We said, "Go get the young man warmed up and let's get ready to roll.'”

        But even Minter couldn't have predicted that Guidugli would make such a splash. The 300-yard passing game was the first by a UC freshman and only the 21st in the school's history. His 31 completions and 41 attempts were both freshman records. Only Deontey Kenner and Greg Cook have completed more passes (35) in one game.

        Minter especially liked the presence the Highlands High School product displayed when he assumed control of the offense.

        “It didn't take him long to feel at home,” Minter said. “One thing he does extremely well is that when he's a little bit flushed from the pocket, he keeps his eyes downfield and looks to keep the route going. He likes to keep the passing game going rather than tuck it and run for your life.”

        Guidugli's debut far outclassed the debuts by some of the most productive quarterbacks in UC history. As a sophomore in 1966, Greg Cook saw his first extensive action against Miami and was 20-for-41 for 233 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Danny McCoin, UC's career passing leader, made his first big impact as a sophomore in 1985 against Virginia Tech, completing 16 of 23 passes for 164 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. And Deontey Kenner went 10-for-16 for 124 yards and one touchdown in the 1997 Humanitarian Bowl.

        So there's no longer any question about starting a freshman quarterback. With Hoover expected to miss the rest of the season, this is clearly Guidugli's team now. His teammates have already shown that they will respond to his leadership, despite his lack of experience.

        “That goes all the way back to him coming here during the summer,” Minter said. “Our guys got to know him. He's a likable kid and all receivers can detect a good arm when they see one.”

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UC aglow over Guidugli

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