Thomas to play in East-West Shrine contest

Steve Guiremand

Monday, Dec. 2, 2002 | 9:52 a.m.

FORT COLLINS, Colo. --- Jason Thomas' quarterbacking days at UNLV officially came to an end Saturday here as he watched from the sidelines as UNLV upset Colorado State, 36-33.

It also may have been his last time playing quarterback at any level.

Thomas said he has been issued an invitation to play in the prestigious East West Shrine All-State Football Game in Palo Alto in January. But the 6-foot-4, 230-pound lefthander won't be going to play quarterback.

"They invited me to come as an 'athlete,' " Thomas said.

It has been speculated that Thomas might be better suited to play tight end or outside linebacker in the National Football League. In fact, former USC head coach Paul Hackett wanted to move Thomas to receiver to catch passes from 2002 Heisman Trophy candidate Carson Palmer, a move that led to Thomas' transferring to UNLV.

"It doesn't matter, really," Thomas said when asked if he was disappointed he wasn't invited to play as a quarterback. "I just want to get into the (NFL). I want to get to the next level. And I think that's my best shot ... as an athlete."

UNLV coach John Robinson agreed.

"I think Jason will probably have to switch to another position to play there," he said.