The Lobos start spring practice Friday. Here's one storyline, key players to watch from each position

Not with incumbent starter Jack Layne possibly missing some practices. Or with Oregon transfer Luke Moga — perhaps the biggest threat to unseat Layne — still settling into a new offense and working with new players. But around this time last year, James Laubstein took advantage of Layne’s absence to set up a quarterback competition during fall camp.

And as Eck has said this year, there will be a competition of some sort. So how much ground can be gained (or lost) among the likes of Layne, Moga and the rest of the room this spring? Players to watch QB Luke Moga: If there’s a player who is going to push Layne for the starting job, Moga remains the clear option after receiving limited playing time at Oregon the last couple years.

Because of that, I’m not sure another transfer is set to command as much attention as the former four-star prospect out of Phoenix. QB Toa Faavae: After logging just one snap last season, the true freshman moved up the depth chart during UNM’s bowl practices and ended the season as the Lobos’ third-string quarterback. Faavae with a greater command of the offense should be interesting to watch, and I wouldn’t be surprised if this staff finds a way to use his legs in certain packages.

QB Cade Mitchell: The 6-3, 210-pound early enrollee out of Mountainside (Ore. ) High School has a big arm and always seemed a little underrated as a three-star recruit. If I’m not expecting him to play much of a role this season, I’m at least curious to see how quick he takes to this offense.