Swogger to transfer from WSU

Josh Swogger will be transferring out from WSU Swogger's father confirmed to the the Vancouver, Washington Columbian. Rumors had been swirling all season as to where Swogger would return to WSU after losing his starting spot to Alex Brink at the beginning of the season.

From Youngstown, Ohio, Swogger was arguably the top quarterback in the state as a senior playing for Ursuline High. Swogger was voted a team captain as a sophomore in 2004, and began the season as the starter for the Cougars. After injury sent him to the sidelines midway through the season, Swogger was replaced in the lineup by Brink. Swogger's return was hampered in spring by his inability to fully take part in drills. In August, Swogger appeared to be battling at least even with Brink for the starting spot for the 2005 season. It was something of a surprise when Brink was named the starter for the season, relegating Swogger to the role of backup for his junior year.

Swogger will have one year of eligility and will look to transfer to a Division 1-AA school where he will be able to compete and play right away. The strongest early candidate is hometown Youngstown State where Swogger played his high school games. Eastern Washington, Montana State, and Richmond have all also expressed interest in providing a home to Swogger for his senior season.

This season, Swogger played very sparingly and only when the game had been decided. Last year as a starter, Swogger had 91 completions on 193 attempts for 1,283 yards, 13 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. Swogger's best win was against Arizona when he connected with Jason Hill on a game-winning touchdown after it looked like Arizona would be able to run out the clock on the game.

With Swogger gone and Brink very likely to be the starter for 2006, the battle for backup quarterback should be wide open. The primary contenders are expected to be Gary Rogers who saw limited game time this season and Arkelon Hall who redshirted after an outstanding high school career. CougZone wishes the best to Swogger.