Colleges

USF can't forget Mountaineers freshman tailback

Noel Devine has played well, adding another offensive threat.

By BOB PUTNAM
Published September 25, 2007

South Florida is spending this week trying to devise ways to stop West Virginia's footloose approach on offense.

The Bulls must create pressure up front to disrupt quarterback Pat White in Friday's game at Raymond James Stadium. They have to wrap running back Steve Slaton tight.

And then, by the time USF might finish those tasks, there is another lethal weapon that deserves special attention: running back Noel Devine.

A former star at North Fort Myers High, Devine's electrifying runs have added oomph for West Virginia. In three games, Devine, a 5-foot-7, 170-pound freshman, has rushed for 267 yards on 24 carries and scored three touchdowns.

"He continues to run hard and be hungry," Mountaineers coach Rich Rodriguez said of Devine after the Maryland game two weeks ago. "He's done more than we probably expected. He's still learning his way, but he's a gifted guy."

Devine created a buzz in 2003 when his highlights were posted on a recruiting service Web site. The site had so many hits, it was shut down twice. For the next three years, Devine continued to shine. Last year, EA Sports went to North Fort Myers to capture moves of Devine to use in this year's NCAA college video game.

In February, Devine signed with West Virginia. Now, Rodriguez wants to get him more involved.

"If he says it, he means it. He's a man of his word," Devine said of Rodriguez's vow to get him more carries.

White and Slaton are just a few trouble spots the Bulls must account for in their game plan.

Now add Devine to the list.

[Last modified September 25, 2007, 00:44:19]