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Blackwell learning how to guard against turnovers

By SHARON GINN

© St. Petersburg Times, published September 29, 2000

TAMPA -- Of all the games last season, the 41-24 loss to Troy State -- in which he threw a game-altering interception -- haunts quarterback Marquel Blackwell most.

Last week's 28-13 loss to Baylor also haunts him, but for different reasons. Blackwell ran for a career-high 132 yards but fumbled twice on key drives. Coach Jim Leavitt blames himself for not preparing Blackwell as a runner.

A common problem emerged in those losses: Blackwell turning over the ball. He worked to change that this week. With Division I-AA No. 1 Troy State coming to town, Blackwell has focused on running back skills, with an emphasis on keeping the ball protected in traffic.

"We've been having guys trying to grab the ball out of his hands all week," Leavitt said.

Cornerback Anthony Henry and the other defensive backs also have worked on ball-handling skills. Henry went in as a receiver against Baylor and made a fourth-quarter catch but fumbled.

ROSTER NOTES: Leavitt said Henry likely will line up at receiver again, if not Saturday then sometime this season. Linebacker Kawika Mitchell continues to take practice snaps at fullback. Leavitt said offensive tackle Mike Snellgrove will start ahead of Ken Dawson for the second straight week, and not because of an injury this time. Dawson's ankle has improved, Leavitt said, but Snellgrove "played really good last game."

INJURY REPORT: Nose tackle Lee Roy Selmon Jr.'s shoulder has healed, and he will start. Reserve defensive end John Brown (ankle) is doubtful and reserve tight end Dan Rodimer (concussion) is out. Backup linebacker Marshall Smith is out three to four weeks with a sprained medial collateral ligament.

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