Florida State loses DT Griffin for the season with knee injury

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Florida State defensive tackle Paul Griffin will miss the rest of the season because of a torn ligament in his left knee.<br> <br> Griffin was on crutches after hurting his knee in the Seminoles&#39; 24-17 win over Troy on Saturday.<br> <br> He transferred to Florida State in January after two seasons at Butler Community College, and earned a starting position after an impressive spring and fall camp.<br> <br> ``He was our second best defensive lineman,&#39;&#39; coach Bobby Bowden said. ``He did well in the spring and fall, and in the first ball game.&#39;&#39;<br> <br> Griffin&#39;s injury, coupled with the loss of second team defensive tackles Emmanuel Dunbar (back) and Letroy Guion (right ankle), leaves Florida State thin on the interior line.<br> <br> Defensive line coach Odell Haggins said freshman Kendrick Stewart will start alongside Andre Fluellen this weekend. Freshman Justin Mincey, who spent time at tackle during fall camp, has moved from defensive end to tackle to help aid the team&#39;s depth.<br> <br> Linebacker Derek Nicholson sprained his right ankle against Troy, but practiced Monday. He was expected to play Saturday against Clemson.<br> <br> (Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)