Bulldogs could be without two starters against Alabama

Posted 7:29PM on Tuesday 4th November 2003 ( 21 years ago )

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI - A week off allowed Mississippi State to get most of its players healthy, but the Bulldogs could still be missing two starters against Alabama on Saturday. Bulldogs coach Jackie Sherrill said Tuesday that tight end Aaron Lumpkin and guard Will Rogers might not be ready to play. ``We will find out today if Aaron can run,'' Sherrill said. ``We wont know until later in the week about Will Rogers. But the week off was very good. I think the players are very rested.'' Rogers and Lumpkin both were injured in Mississippi State's 42-17 loss at Kentucky two weeks ago. If Rogers can't play Avery House or Chris McNeil will take his place, Sherrill said. Tommy Ferrill or freshman Brian Anderson will get the nod at tight end if Lumpkin can't go, Sherrill said. Lumpkin is the team's fourth-leading receiver with 13 receptions for 145 yards. He caught his only two touchdowns against Memphis on Oct. 11. With Sherrill announcing his retirement last month, Saturday's game will be his last against his alma mater. Sherrill played for former Alabama coach Paul ``Bear'' Bryant. Sherrill is 5-9 against Alabama. ``Because of the proximity of the two schools, the series has been good for both schools. Its one that both teams play very hard,'' Sherrill said. ``Both teams have Mississippi-Alabama players, and both teams have players that both teams recruited. You always had the inner knowledge of some of the players on the other team.'' Alabama may have a bit more familiarity with the Bulldogs' personnel. Former Mississippi State offensive coordinator Sparky Woods joined the Alabama staff after being fired by Sherrill last season. Alabama has won the last two meetings, including last year's 28-14 decision in Tuscaloosa. The Tide holds a 68-16-3 lead in the series, and have won 12 of the 15 meetings in Starkville.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2003/11/169843