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The Bearcats enter spring drills Coach Brian Kelly, who agreed to a contract extension this offseason, welcomes back 16 starters, including three All-Americans, from a team that went 10-3 and beat Mississippi State in the PapaJohns.com Bowl.

First day of practice was April 1, 2008. "I was happy with this morning's workout," Kelly said. "Last year, I was yelling throughout the spring. The group now understands the tempo, rhythm, and our expectations for practices."

The Bearcats enter spring drills as one of the early favorites to contend for the Big East title. But, important questions need to be answered.

Who will start at quarterback? Who will be the featured running back?

Spring practice will be coach Brian Kelly's first look at the key participants in what could be a lengthy, and spirited quarterback battle.

Demetrius Jones transferred from Notre Dame to compete for the quarterback job (He redshirted last year at Notre Dame). From the recruiting class of 2006, Jones was listed as the #2 double-threat quarterback in the entire nation, #1 was Tim Tebow of the Gators.

Speedy junior Jacob Ramsey is the top returning back, but freshman Isaiah Pead could compete immediately.

http://www.sportsline.com/collegefootball/teams/report/CIN/10744335