For now, third-year sophomore Alex Cate has the edge on 24-year-old redshirt freshman Brandon Weeden.

"We're at the same point we were at the start of spring. Cate has the lead because he has experience in the offense, but he still does not have a lot of reps," co-offensive coordinator Gunter Brewer said.

Brewer and OSU coach Mike Gundy said their desire is to name Robinson's backup after the first week of the preseason.

Cate struggled in Saturday's Orange-White spring game. Serving as the quarterback for the losing White team, Cate was 12-of-25 for 82 yards with a touchdown and interception. He also was sacked four times.

"I feel comfortable with the offense and I was able to get a lot more reps this spring," Cate said. "But there are still some things I need to work on."

Cate mentioned reading the defenses better. OSU coach Mike Gundy said Cate and Weeden both need to improve their decision making.

"Obviously, they don't run like Zac does. But when you can pull the ball down and run for 8 or 10 yards, instead of forcing (a pass) into coverage, you need to run for 8 or 10 yards," Gundy said.

Weeden was the Orange's QB for three possessions Saturday behind Robinson. He was 7-of-13 for 54 yards.

Youman and restless: Redshirt freshman tight end Wilson Youman took advantage Brandon Pettigrew's finger injury and earned valuable experience.

"He may be the one guy who is a little bit fatigued at this point. Brandon not working much in the spring has benefited him," Gundy said.

Youman caught a 31-yard touchdown pass from Robinson for the Orange team's only touchdown Saturday. He finished with three catches for 53 yards. But he also had three dropped passes, including one in the back of the end zone.

Youman was the only tight end participating in spring practice that was on campus last fall. OSU signed three tight ends in February's recruiting class. Gundy said he definitely one of the three -- Cooper Bassett, Jamal Mosley and Justin Horton -- to play as a true freshman this fall.

OSU SCHEDULE

2008 season

Aug. 30 at Wash. St. (Seattle) TBA

Sept. 6 Houston TBA

Sept. 13 Missouri State TBA

Sept. 27 Troy TBA

Oct. 4 Texas A&M TBA

Oct. 11 at Missouri TBA

Oct. 18 Baylor TBA

Oct. 25 at Texas TBA

Nov. 1 Iowa State TBA

Nov. 8 at Texas Tech TBA

Nov. 15 at Colorado TBA

Nov. 29 Oklahoma TBA