BY TIM HAYES

Bristol Herald Courier

WISE — During the University of Virginia’s College at Wise’s annual Red-Gray spring football game on Saturday afternoon, there was one noticeable absence on the artificial turf at Carl Smith Stadium.

For the first time in three years, running back Ra’Shad Morgan was not taking handoffs from quarterback Randy Hippeard. The guy that rushed for 62 career touchdowns, was a two-time All-American, has his own highlight video on YouTube and could land on the roster of a National Football League team, has moved on.

So, naturally one of the biggest issues facing UVa.-Wise entering the 2008 season is who will take over for Morgan as the featured back.

It appears to be a crowded field with loads of good applicants.

"It’s going to be a very competitive situation," UVa.-Wise head coach Bruce Wasem said.

One guy in the mix is rising sophomore Jyron Barclay. The Stone Mountain, Ga. native showed flashes of brilliance last season, appearing in nine games and gaining 256 yards and scoring three touchdowns in the role of Morgan’s backup.

He rushed for 130 yards and a score in a win over Belhaven and started in the place of an injured Morgan in a victory over Mid-South Conference rival Union (Ky.) College.

"Last year I was a little tense," Barclay said. "This year I am more relaxed. I know the offense a little more."

Barclay gained 56 yards on 11 carries during Saturday’s spring game, breaking one run for a nice 15-yard gain. He also had the most productive return when the team was running through kickoff drills.

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Barclay has another key trait — his toughness.

"You don’t even have to worry about Jyron," Hippeard said. "He’s going to come out and give you everything he’s got on every play. He’s going to hit the hole hard and make the first person miss. He’s a reliable back. He’ll play every snap if he has to."

Barclay is among a crowded field of tailbacks. Hakeem Abdul-Saboor and Chris Laws are currently injured and did not play in the spring game, but both should be back healthy when camp opens in summer and competing for the starting job.

Redshirt freshman Marcus Gilliam had some productive carries in Saturday’s game and scored a touchdown, while Montez Wright also got some looks in the backfield.

Add to that some talented recruits and it’s really uncertain who will be carrying the ball when Wise opens its season in August.

thayes@bristolnews.com | (276) 645-2570