YSU FOOTBALL Spring practice critical to Street's development

With Jeff Ryan injured, the redshirt sophomore will get plenty of repetitions.
By PETE MOLLICA
VINDICATOR SPORTS STAFF
YOUNGSTOWN -- There is something about spring football practice that brings out the best in Youngstown State's Colby Street.
A year ago, as a redshirt sophomore, Street passed for 289 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game.
This spring could be the most important one ever in Street's career, because for the next three weeks he'll be the Penguins' No. 1 quarterback.
Bair battling, too: The reason is because Jeff Ryan, YSU's three-year starter, underwent shoulder surgery earlier this month.
Street and redshirt freshman Ben Bair of Poland are in the hot seat of guiding the Penguin offense.
Even after his outstanding spring game effort of a year ago, Street only saw limited action during the regular season. He attempted just 18 passes, completing nine, including two for touchdowns.
Street did start the Illinois State game when Ryan was bothered by a wrist injury. He played the first quarter, leading a scoring drive before Ryan took over and played the final three quarters.
The 6-foot-3, 230-pounder from Beallsville is excited about this spring and the opportunity before him.
"It's unfortunate that Jeff is down this spring, but what that means is that I have to work that much harder to prove that I can handle this job next season if I have to," he said.
"I just have to go out there every day and work hard, learn the offense and do what it takes to get better every day. I have to work hard because Ben Bair is right there behind me, pushing me every step of the way."
Street said there isn't one area he felt needed more work with his game.
"I need to get better in every aspect of the position," he said. "I'm starting with the fundamentals and working my way up from there.
"I know that we have a great offensive line back, as well as some outstanding wide receivers and offensive backs. I know that if I do my job, they will do theirs."
Street said he hasn't noticed much difference with the change of leadership from Jim Tressel to new coach Jon Heacock.
"I have noticed that the intensity has picked up a lot this year under Coach Heacock," he said. "He expects the most out of us and wants us to be good.
"The offense is in good hands with Coach [John] Klacik, he'll do a good job for us."
Heacock has confidence in Street.
"I think he could take over if he had to," Heacock said. "I think that this is what spring ball is all about, finding out just what these kids can do out there.
Bottom-line benefit: "The good thing about all this is that he's going to get a lot of quality reps this spring and that can only be a help to him," Heacock added.
The Penguins will practice Monday, Wednesday and Friday and then hold the first of two jersey scrimmages Saturday morning at Stambaugh Stadium.