A single play, by its atypical nature, typified George Godsey's season last year. It was an option against Georgia. The Bulldogs neglected to cover Godsey, who "sprinted" 31 yards for the score.

Pretty? Hardly. But effective.

The Goose in the golden helmet won't win any awards for aesthetics. His release looks something like a cross between a shot-putter and a dart-thrower.

But his passing efficiency rating of 151.86 placed sixth in Division I-A. Better than Oklahoma's Josh Heupel, better than Virginia Tech's Michael Vick, better than Purdue's Drew Brees.

"Goose Godsey is probably one of the most unathletic quarterbacks in the country," said defensive end Greg Gathers. "But the main thing about Goose is his heart, and he's smart. No matter how hard he got hit, he never went down."

Godsey compensated for his loopy release by finding receivers with his uncanny promptness. Tech led the ACC in fewest sacks allowed, a testament to Godsey's ability to make quick reads.

"He did an excellent job of utilizing the talents around him," said head coach George O'Leary. "George knows where he's throwing it."

Godsey doesn't dispute the modest assessments of his talent. It might not be so glaring had he not followed Joe Hamilton, the 1999 Heisman runner-up.

Their differences were obvious.

Hamilton was small but quick, able to improvise on a moment's notice. Godsey seldom needs to improvise because he's almost unfailing at making the right reads at the line of scrimmage.

"You look at Joe and me. He's one of the greatest athletes who ever played at this school," Godsey said. "I rely more on my mental aspects. I don't think anyone would tell you my arm strength is that great."

But neither is it poor. He was a highly rated prep pitcher in Tampa.

"He's a real smart guy. He knows the offense so well," said center David Schmidgal. "He knows all the reads. He gets the ball off on time so well. He knows everything so down pat."

Lindy's Football Annuals (National, SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-10, ACC, plus Pro) are available at newsstands regionally, or can be ordered as a set at www.lindyssports.com, or by calling 1-205-871-1182.