The race is on.

Kansas University has conducted two spring football practices with no pads, and eyes have been drawn to the quarterbacks. Kerry Meier, Adam Barmann and Todd Reesing all are competing, with a starter expected to be named soon.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do when the pads come on and people start flying at them,” lineman David Ochoa said. “We’ll see, but the first impression is very good.”

Meier took many of the first-team repetitions Monday, with Barmann and Reesing throwing plenty of balls, too. Barmann has started 13 games over the past three seasons, but Meier and Reesing are the unknown – and most intriguing – horses in the race.

True freshman Reesing had his first workout in front of KU fans, showing a powerful arm when getting repetitions.

“They need a lot of repetitions in terms of being able to recognize things,” KU coach Mark Mangino said. “I think they just need to improve in all areas of the game. But it’s plain to see that they have some natural abilities you really like at the position.”

Officially divorced: One player who won’t be in the quarterback mix is Marcus Herford, who’s no longer taking reps after roughly 18 months at the position.

“Marcus is focusing on wide receiver,” Mangino said. “That’s good for Marcus because that’s going to help us.”

Butler practices: Still no conclusion has been reached regarding Eric Butler’s eligibility, but until the NCAA makes a ruling, Butler is allowed to practice with the team.

Butler has played just two years of college football, but five years have elapsed since he started college.

KU is petitioning for more eligibility.

“Our compliance office is a lot more optimistic about the situation,” Mangino said. “We’re hoping to hear any day now.”