By Times Staff Reports
Published September 30, 2003
TAMPA - South Florida coach Jim Leavitt said Monday the team severed ties with offensive guard Shelly Houston.
Houston, a sophomore from Immokalee, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of burglary of a conveyance, third-degree grand theft and fraudulent use of a credit card.
"Shelly Houston is not with our team. There is no gray area with me," Leavitt said. "Will (a relationship) ever be re-established? ... I'm not thinking about that."
Houston started eight games in 2002 and the season opener against Alabama.
WORKING HARD: Leavitt said the Bulls spent much of practice conditioning and working on fundamentals. Leavitt said he is looking forward to hosting Louisville on Saturday, the team's first home Conference USA game.
"We're excited about the opportunity," he said.
Freshman Tavarious Robinson and sophomore Billy Henderson did not practice.
- ROB BRANNON
Zook displeased with defending the run
GAINESVILLE - After reviewing tape from Florida's 24-21 win at Kentucky on Saturday, coach Ron Zook walked away unhappy with his defense's ability to stop the run.
"I don't think it was as good as it has been," Zook said. "We didn't play with as much emotion and didn't tackle as well. I think you have to be able to so that to win."
The defense, which allowed three rushing TDs
y Kentucky's Arliss Beach and a 42-yard reverse by Derek Abney, might be without starting defensive tackle Kenny Parker, who injured a knee against the Wildcats.
Zook said if Parker cannot play, Mo Mitchell might start. Mitchell had back spasms throughout Saturday's game.
HONORS: Cornerback Johnny Lamar was named SEC defensive player of the week.
Lamar had seven tackles against the Wildcats, two for a loss. But his most impressive play helped set the Gators up for a comeback.
He intercepted Jared Lorenzen on the Florida 36 with less than four minutes left and returned it to the 1 to set up the go-ahead touchdown.
Before Saturday's game against Mississippi, senior offensive lineman Max Starks will be recognized as the SEC good work player of the week.
Starks has been active in the community, student government and charitable foundations since he arrived in Gainesville.
TIME ANNOUNCED: The Oct.11 game at LSU will start at 3:30 p.m. The game will be televised on Ch.10.
