Vick Talks About Leaving

Less than two weeks after pledging to return for his junior season at Virginia Tech, quarterback Michael Vick hinted that he could change his mind again after the Gator Bowl and declare himself eligible for the NFL draft. Many NFL draft experts have pegged Vick as the No. 1 selection if he chooses to make himself available for the draft by the Jan. 12 deadline for underclassmen.

Vick said the possibility of being the No. 1 pick overall is hard to dismiss.

“When I hear that, it makes my decision even tougher, just to hear that thought” he said before practice for the sixth-ranked Hokies’ date with No. 16 Clemson on New Year’s Day. “That’s been my dream ever since I’ve been a young boy, ever since I’ve been watching football.

“It’s great to know I have the opportunity, I have that option. I just have to make the most of it. I’m sure if a lot of other people were in my situation, I’m pretty sure they would make the most of it, too.”

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Michigan receiver David Terrell said reports of him leaving school early are not accurate and he might return for his senior season. . . . The last three Tennessee players delayed because of an ice storm joined the team for Cotton Bowl practice. Receivers Cedrick Wilson and Eric Parker and offensive tackle Reggie Coleman arrived after being stuck in Memphis and Little Rock because of icy conditions. . . . Running back Rudi Johnson, receiver Ronney Daniels and fullback Heath Evans of Auburn have asked the NFL to evaluate their status for the 2001 draft. . . . Former Penn State defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky is the front-runner to be Virginia’s next coach, according to a report in the Washington Post.