Playing Time

Scout's No. 5 ranked quarterback Kevin Newsome of Virginia isn't ready to talk about teams yet, but there's little doubt about a key factor in his recruitment.

Kevin Newsome is Scout's No. 5 ranked quarterback in the country. He has a load of natural ability and has been busy showing it off on the track.

Kevin Newsome of Chesapeake, Va. measures 6-3 and 215 pounds and is the No. 5 ranked quarterback in the country by Scout. It's easy to see why teams from all over the country have been courting him with his size and arm as well as his athleticism.

"I just got done doing the high hurdles in track," said Newsome. "I won the state in the hurdles and I placed fourth in the nationals at the Nike Indoor event."

Newsome has the ability to run by most players on the field, but he uses his mobility well to set up the pass.

"I passed for over 1,500 yards last year, and I rushed for about 500. We went 10-2 last year. We lost in the second round of the playoffs. We played E.J. Manuel's team in the first round; he's going to be a beast in college."

Big and athletic, Manuel might be a natural comparison for Newsome, although Manuel is taller, and Newsome is faster.

"I don't really like to compare myself to other players, but he's got a great arm. He has such a clean release; it's real quick."

While Newsome has yet to narrow down the list of schools that are recruiting him, he's looking for the chance to get on the field early at quarterback.

"I don't really have a favorite. I really like all of the schools that have offered me; I think they're great opportunities at great schools. I think it's a real blessing that I can choose from those colleges."

"When I start to narrow it down, I'll look up the schools on the internet and learn what I can about them I'll try and visit most of the schools I'm interested in this summer that are going to give me a fair shot to play quarterback...early. I'd like to play early. Academics are important to me as well. I'll look at where the school is located, but distance won't be a factor in my decision."

While Newsome isn't ready to narrow down his list of schools, there's little doubt that the depth chart and style of play is going to play a factor in his recruitment.

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