Dooley announces change at quarterback
RUSTON -- Louisiana Tech head coach Derek Dooley announced that sophomore signal caller Ross Jenkins will start this weekend's contest against Idaho when the Bulldogs face the Vandals Saturday at 6 p.m. at Joe Aillet Stadium.
Dooley announced the decision during his regularly scheduled media luncheon Monday afternoon at the Charles Wyly Athletic Center.
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"We are going to make a change of who starts at quarterback this week," Dooley said. "Ross will be the starter. I told Taylor that we can't blame (all the offensive problems) on him. Everyone on offense has to do a better job.
"However, there is no denying that the quarterback position can have the greatest affect on change. I don't know where it will lead us. It's not something I like to get in to as a coach. At this point, it's something we need to do."
Jenkins will make his first career start for the Bulldogs, replacing senior Taylor Bennett who had started the first five games of the year. Bennett has completed 61-of-156 passes for 844 yards and only two touchdowns while throwing five interceptions.
"You have to do something," Dooley said. "I think Ross can bring some things to the offense. He certainly has great leadership and can make plays with his feet more. I think where we are offensively warrants some change."
Jenkins has seen action in three games off the bench for the Bulldogs this year, completing 4-of-12 passes for 15 yards with one interception.
Dooley also noted that linebacker Brian White would miss this weekend's game after suffering an injury in the Hawaii contest.
"Brian is out," Dooley said. "He's getting an MRI today, but it doesn't look good. Losing him (in the Hawaii game) hurt us. He is a very good athlete in space."