Weather | Sports | Forums | Comics | Classifieds | Calendar | Movies
© St. Petersburg Times, published August 30, 2002
TALLAHASSEE -- With running back Lorenzo Booker now a redshirt freshman, freshman running back Leon Washington will be in the spotlight. Washington, who plays several positions, will carry more of the rushing load.
"We've got (Washington) on so many special teams, that he's got to play," coach Bobby Bowden said Thursday. "We've got him on punt returns, kickoff returns, going down under kickoffs, under punts and running some tailback."
Washington could get the opportunity to return a few punts as the search for a starting punt returner continues.
SMITH SUSPENDED: Cornerback Leroy Smith will be suspended for the game for violating training rules, though what rules he broke weren't given.
"It's a real shame. He was looking real good," Bowden said.
WOMBLE, THORPE PROBABLE: Defensive tackle Jeff Womble practiced with the team and could play against the Cavaliers on Saturday, Bowden said. Womble was suspended for the Iowa State game for violating team rules, but would not have played anyway because of an MCL strain in his left knee, a preseason scrimmage injury.
Receiver Craphonso Thorpe (toe) might be back.
OL SHUFFLE: The offensive line might need to reshuffle. Tackle Ray Willis is doubtful. If Willis can't play tackle Brett Williams will and Alex Barron will move into the lineup.
-- JASON SCHNEIDER, Times wires
He was cleared by doctors after suffering a concussion at a scrimmage Aug.21 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
NO INJURIES: "We're really healthy," coach Ron Zook said. "It's amazing when you're getting ready to play how well everyone gets. It's time to play and all of a sudden they're better."
FRESHMEN TO DRESS: Several freshmen have a chance to play Saturday. Ciatrick Fason will be on special teams, while linebacker Taurean Charles, quarterbacks Gavin Dickey and Patrick Dosh, offensive lineman Randy Hand and receiver Reggie Lewis also will dress. Though they will be dressed on the sideline, Zook stressed he would prefer to redshirt as many freshmen as possible.
"Right now the only one slated to play in the game is Ciatrick Fason," Zook said.
-- JILL MARTIN