Phillip Sims leaves Alabama; UVA a logical destination

As the spring semester concludes today in Tuscaloosa, Phillip Sims has decided to transfer from the University of Alabama. Sims, who is seeking more playing time after sitting behind A.J. McCarron during the Crimson Tide's BCS Championship run, is expected to transfer closer to his home, Chesapeake, Virginia. Sims was 9-12 for 135 yards and 2 touchdowns in Alabama's spring game two weeks ago.

If Sims qualifies for a hardship waiver (that he will apply for), he will have 3 years of eligibility remaining, and could play right away. If the waiver request is denied, he would have to sit out 2012, and would have 2 years of eligibility remaining, starting in 2013. Sims was offered by basically everyone coming out of Oscar Smith High School in 2010, and was rated the #2 quarterback in the nation for the 2010 class by Rivals.

Regardless of whether Sims receives his hardship waiver from the NCAA, Virginia is a logical, and probably the most likely destination for the signal caller. Wanting to play close to home, UVA would obviously be a fit for Sims. Also, Sims could join his former high school teammates Tim Smith and Perry Jones on the Cavalier offense. Virginia has no choice but to accept a talent like Sims. At this stage in the Mike London era, UVA does not have the luxury of turning down a player of Sims' talent, regardless of how good Michael Rocco was last year. If Sims chooses Virginia and is eligible to play in 2012, look for him to challenge the incumbent Rocco for the starting job.

This story remains fluid. Stay tuned to Streaking the Lawn for all the latest news on this story, and many others.