The following is from the online St Louis Post-Dispatch (http://www.stltoday.com):


Tigers make changes at TE, on special teams

Graham Watson
Of the Post-Dispatch
08/30/2004


COLUMBIA, Mo. - The Missouri football team released its depth chart Monday with a few unexpected changes at tight end and on kick returns.

Redshirt freshman Martin Rucker will start at tight end over senior Victor Sesay. Sesay, who ruptured the patellar tendon in his right knee in the ninth game of last season, missed most of the spring, but was listed as first string on the opening depth chart. Coach Gary Pinkel said Rucker made his move during two-a-days and that the coaching staff has confidence in his ability to start. Pinkel also said Sesay would play in two-tight end sets.

Cornerback Shirdonya Mitchell, who will start opposite A.J. Kincaide, also will be the Tigers return specialist, returning kickoffs and punts. Redshirt freshman defensive back Alex Woodley was named a kickoff returner, a spot that most thought would go to running back Marcus Woods.

Junior college transfer Joe Tantarelli won the job of place kicker over Alex Pettersen. William Franklin, Jason Ray and Andrew Hoskins will be the backup receivers.

The Tigers open the season at 6 p.m. Saturday at Faurot Field, against Arkansas State.