Keller won the job over Joe Ganz following two weeks of evaluation during fall camp.

"We have had a thorough evaluation and feel at this point it is in the best interest of the team to announce Sam (Keller) as the starter going into the Nevada game," Callahan said at the conclusion of practice. "I've got to mention there was great competition throughout camp. (Junior quarterback) Joe Ganz is a class act. We appreciate all of his efforts. He continues to improve and he will definitely be our backup this season."

"I still feel the same way, that I have a responsibilty as the quarterback, whether the backup or the starter, to prepare and to get after it even harder," Keller said. "It's an honor. It's something I've been waiting for a long time. I really haven't changed in my feelings. I owe it to this team, the players and the coaches, to keep competing as hard as ever."