Saturday, August 11, 2007

JSU football: Bruisier Smith ineligible, to go juco route

By David Brandt, Sports Writer Clarion Ledger

Jackson State sophomore running back Dorian Smith failed to qualify academically this season and will have to transfer to a junior college, said coach Rick Comegy.

Smith (6-foot-1, 245), a bruising back nicknamed "Baby Bus" for his physical similarity to former Pittsburgh Steelers star Jerome Bettis, was used sparingly early last season but found a niche down the stretch as JSU's power option.

Smith carried the ball 18 times for 112 yards and four touchdowns last season. His best game was against Alcorn State in the season finale, when he had 10 carries for 60 yards and two touchdowns.

"It's unfortunate and we'll miss him," Comegy said. "But hopefully he'll go to a junior college for a year, get things straightened out, and then be back with us for the last two years. He might be even bigger and stronger when we get him back."

Smith figured to be one of the main candidates at running back this season. That pool is now down to favorites Erik Haw, Lavarius Giles, L.D. Briscoe and Southern Miss transfer Cody Hull.

COMING INTO HIS OWN

Senior linebacker Daniel Brooks is the unquestioned leader of Jackson State's defense, but sophomore Marcus Jamison isn't far behind.

Jamison, who had 19 tackles as a true freshman, figures to play a major role this season as he takes over for the graduated Ken Woodard.

"Marcus is my boy," Brooks said. "Some guys are blessed with the ability to pick up the college game really fast. He's one of those guys. With him on the field, I know I don't have to worry about a thing."

Jamison (6-1, 220) was slated to join Brooks and senior Marcus Smith at linebacker, but Smith broke his ankle on Thursday and is lost for the season.

"That was a shame because (Smith) brought a lot of good things to the defense," Jamison said. "But we're going to have to be strong and do it without him."

BIG MAN ON CAMPUS

Jackson State welcomed monster freshman lineman Terrael Williams to campus on Friday. The 6-foot-8, 390-pounder from Dallas is easily the biggest player on the Tigers' roster.

Williams was hampered by eligibility concerns earlier in the summer, but Comegy said those are clear and the big man is ready for practice.

"I'm not sure if he's going to help us this year as a true freshman, but he might," Comegy said. "That's a huge body that we're certainly happy is on our side."

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