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Thomas Can Play After Clearing Academic 'Glitch'

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Tallahassee Democrat

Published: August 26, 2008

TALLAHASSEE - Jermaine Thomas, out since Aug. 16 to take care of what Coach Bobby Bowden had called "a glitch," was cleared for the fall semester as classes began. But just as Thomas joined Tavares Pressley from the 2008 recruiting class to be successfully cleared, two more from that group were held out of Monday's scrimmage: TEs Bo Reliford and Ja'Baris Little.

"I've never seen anything like it," offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher said. "This piece of paperwork and that piece of paperwork. Kills you. When you see guys leave like that you almost have to start over with them when they get back."

There was a second piece of good news for the staff. DL Justin Mincey, who needed to address academics over the summer, was cleared to begin his preparation for a junior season that will still be delayed by a three-game suspension. The total of players who will miss the season opener because of suspensions for various reasons now stands at a dozen.

FSU is still waiting for the final word on former TEs Charlie Graham and Matt Dunham.

CATCHING UP: While Antone Smith grabbed much of the attention in a scrimmage on three big runs for 130 yards, one of his challengers was still learning the playbook. Pressley is expected to vie for significant playing time at tailback.

"Very raw. Still got a long ways to go," Fisher said. "Put too many balls on the ground. Has ability. He's been behind."

FEELING BETTER: Christian Ponder's challenge for playing time at quarterback was back on track after he missed two full practices last week with a sore shoulder.

The redshirt sophomore said it was sore in the beginning but as the practice continued it was fine.

"He had four days rest," Fisher said. "I thought he threw the ball well. He looked all right."

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