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Notebook: Ball Suspended 1 Game For Breaking Team Rules

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 7, 2007

TALLAHASSEE Sophomore LB Marcus Ball returned last week at Boston College after missing back-to-back games due to a severely sprained ankle. However, Ball will be out again Saturday at Virginia Tech, but this time because of a one-game suspension.

FSU coach Bobby Bowden announced after Wednesday's practice that Ball is suspended for Saturday's game against the No..11-ranked Hokies due to an unspecified violation of team rules. Ball, one of FSU's most athletic players, backs up Dekoda Watson at strongside LB.

With Ball unavailable, reserve Rodney Gallon could receive significant playing time if he recovers fast enough from a sprained ankle suffered during practice Wednesday. Regardless, linebackers coach Chuck Amato said Ball's absence won't cripple the unit because of its depth.

"We'll have to see what happens with Rodney," Amato said. "We've got a lot of options."

FRIENDLY REMINDER: In the inaugural ACC Championship Game in 2005, FSU entered as a heavy underdog against a Virginia Tech team ranked fifth in the nation. But FSU pulled off the upset, winning 27-22 to advance to the Orange Bowl.

In the teams' first meeting since, Bowden expects the Hokies to be fired up when the Noles roll into Lane Stadium on Saturday.

"I would think they would have great incentive after that playoff game," Bowden said. "I would think that would be on their bulletin board."

BIRTHDAY BOY: Bowden has no special plans for his 78th birthday today. Normally, his wife Ann bakes a cake and hands out traditional gifts.

"I'll be getting my handkerchief and getting my tie," Bowden said.

NOLE NUGGETS: K Gary Cismesia is one of 20 finalists for the Lou Groza Award, given annually to the nation's top kicker. Cismesia has made 19 of 25 field goal attempts … FSU practiced Tuesday in temperatures near 50 degrees, about the same temperatures expected Saturday in Blacksburg … FSU has not played in Blacksburg since 1989.

Scott Carter

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