RunningtheBulls.com - Notebook: Lamar opts for redshirt

September 2, 2012

Phil Neary
RunningtheBulls.com Publisher

Lindsey Lamar, who switched from running back to receiver in the offseason, has decided to redshirt this season.

Lamar, who's slipped on the depth chart due to the emergence of other players, met with Holtz last week.

"He's a little bit rusty right now because he hasn't played (running back) in two years," Holtz said. "I don't think he's ready to be an every down back yet ... I think he can benefit from a redshirt year. Having the opportunity to put on weight and feel more comfortable at running back in a year -- he would rather do that, which I totally respect. Right now, I don't feel like I can give him the reps with only one football and some of the weapons we have."

Junior Marcus Shaw and senior Demetris Murray have separated themselves as USF's top two backs, while redshirt freshman Willie Davis and junior Bradley Battles are also in the mix. Lamar has been the Bulls' primary kick returner the past two seasons, and Holtz said Lamar still could play this season if there is an injury in the backfield.

"An injury or two and that redshirt is coming off and he has to (play), and he understands that," Holtz said.

Offensive line banged up

Projected starters Darrell Williams and Quinterrius Eatmon have been battling injuries, which meant extended reps for redshirt freshmen Max Lang and senior Damien Edwards. Edwards, who started at left tackle, and Lang, who started at right tackle, made their first collegiate starts, as did center Austin Reiter.

Williams, who's been battling an ankle injury, did not play. Eatmon, however, saw time at right tackle.

Holtz said he would like to play with ten (two-deep at each position on the line) on regular basis, but rotated eight on Saturday.

"Even though we were playing with 8 up front, I did not think it was one of our better efforts on the offensive line," Holtz said.

USF rushed for 85 yards on 31 carries on Saturday.

Etc

Battles and offensive lineman Lawrence Martin did not play because of in-house issues, but Holtz said he expects both to practice Monday ... After connecting on his third extra point in the first half, senior kicker Maikon Bonani became USF's career scoring leader with 247 points ... Junior Terrence Mitchell, who missed most of last season with a concussion, caught five passes for 78 and touchdown and also had punt returns of 22 and 39 yards. "He's an explosive player and we're going to have to utilize him as an offensive weapon," Holtz said.

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