Greenbrier senior will play football for Liberty

Greenbrier standout Eugene Rogers will sign today to play football for Liberty in Lynchburg, Va.

Despite offers from Georgia Southern, the Naval Academy and Presbyterian, Rogers chose the faith-based atmosphere Liberty has to offer. Rogers also liked the idea of knowing who he'd be playing for during the next four years, as Flames coach Ken Karcher recently signed a five-year contract extension that will keep him at Liberty through 2005.

Karcher had a solid career himself. He was regarded as one of the nation's top prep quarterbacks coming out of high school before signing at Notre Dame. He transferred to Tulane, where he was a two-year starter and attracted NFL scouts. He played for Kansas City, New Orleans and Denver during his NFL career. He also was John Elway's backup during Super Bowl XXII.

According to an admissions official at Liberty, the school has an enrollment of 7,000 students, and a four-year scholarship to Liberty is worth more than $80,000.

They will be getting their money's worth.

Rogers has the talent to play at most major Division I-A programs. If he had not missed most of his senior season because of injury, Rogers might be headed to a bigger program. I expect big things from Rogers.

The Flames are getting a player with tremendous football instincts and athleticism. He could play receiver or defensive back, but either way he will be a legitimate contender for playing time right away.

The only obstacle in his way is his weight. He needs to add about 10 or 15 pounds and not lose any speed.

If he does that, Liberty will be getting an all-conference performer. On top of all his ability, Rogers also seems to have a great attitude and a very strong work ethic. He would be a fine representative for Liberty University, even if he never played a down.