Good news for Virginia: the Cavaliers will indeed have former Alabama quarterback Phillip Sims available to play this fall.
UVA had filed paperwork as recently as last month to allow Sims to compete immediately following his transfer from the Tide earlier this year. NCAA rules normally mandate that a player sit out one year if he transfers between Division 1 programs. However, the “personal reason” attached to Sims’ departure was apparently enough to persuade the Association otherwise.
“I am pleased we were able to work with the NCAA to get a resolution regarding this matter,” said Virginia coach Mike London in a statement. “We look forward to having Phillip and the rest of our team in camp this August.”
Sims will have three years of eligibility remaining, and given the news, should be the favorite to start immediately. Last year’s starter Michael Rocco returns, but he carries with him some rather inconsistent states (13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions last season).