Virginia Tech has named transfer quarterback Michael Brewer the starter for their first game on Aug. 30 against William and Mary.
Brewer transferred to Virginia Tech after graduating from Texas Tech. He is able to play immediately because of the NCAA graduate transfer rules. He will have two years of eligibility remaining, according to the AP.
Virginia Tech head coach Frank Beamer picked Brewer over redshirt senior Mark Leal.
“Both guys gave great effort and played very well in preseason, making it a very difficult choice,” he said. “It was a very close race and we’re proud of both of them.”
Brewer redshirted his first year at Texas Tech and appeared in 13 games over the following two seasons. He threw for 440 yards and five touchdowns in those appearances.
Brewer told Virginia Tech that he is honored to be named starter and he is looking forward to the season.
Leal has been former starter Logan Thomas’ backup for the past three years. Last year against UCLA in the Sun Bowl, he completed just 12 of 25 passes and he threw two interceptions in the loss.
Prior to spring practice, coach Beamer announced that the quarterback position was available to any of his quarterbacks. At the end of spring practice Beamer picked sophomore Brenden Motley as the starter, but he injured his back during preseason camp.