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Some of you are going to say it, others are going to shout it, but the thought that comes along with the news that Hope is getting a new love interest other than Scott Clifton’s Liam Spencer is “Well, it’s about freaking time!” Yep, Kim Matula’s alter ego will finally be caught up in a romantic situation sans Bill’s son. In fact, a rep confirms that another Emmy winner — Darin Brooks (ex-Max Brady, “Days of our Lives) — will be the one stealing Hope’s heart!

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(SoapOperaNetwork.com) — “Days of our Lives” may be a sinking ship, but that won’t stop Darin Brooks (Max Brady) from expanding his horizons.

Brooks has signed on to star alongside former NFL running back-turned-actor Ed Marinaro (“Sisters,” “Hill Street Blues”) in the SpikeTV comedy pilot “Blue Mountain State” from Lionsgate Television and Varsity Pictures, reports The Hollywood Reporter.

While still in the pilot stage, “Mountain” is a scripted series surrounding three college freshman who join the Midwestern college football team of Blue Mountain State University, and must adapt to college life while juggling football, girls, classes and hazing rituals. Brooks will play Alex, a talented quarterback content with riding on the bench, while enjoying college parties. The pilot was written by Chris Romano and Eric Falconer (“The Sarah Silverman Program“). Romano will play Sammy, Alex’s best friend,  who aspires to be the school’s mascot.

The potential series will also stars Sam Jones III (“ER”) as Craig, a top recruit and future pro footballer, whose life is already mapped out by his controlling girlfriend, Denise (played by Gabrielle Dennis, “The Game”). Alan Ritchson (“Smallville”) will portray Thad, a senior on the football team who loves hazing incoming freshman.

Brian Robbins serves as the potential series’ executive producer.

At this time, it is still unclear as to whether “Blue Mountain State” will interfere with Brooks’ “DAYS” obligations if it receives a full series commitment from SpikeTV.

“Days of our Lives” airs Weekdays on NBC. Weeknights on SOAPnet. Anytime on iTunes. Check local listings.