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FSU's Manuel to start for injured Ponder

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By STEVE ELLIS

The Tallahassee Democrat

Published: November 8, 2009

TALLAHASSEE - E.J. Manuel will be the starting quarterback against Wake Forest next Saturday as Florida State tries to keep its bowl hopes alive.

That move was expected from the moment FSU announced after Saturday night's loss to Clemson that Ponder suffered a separated right shoulder late in the game.

Ponder, who has been mostly brilliant this season will have x-rays and other examinations on his throwing shoulder on Monday.

This ends Ponder's 22-game starting streak and will put the ball in the hands of redshirt freshman Manuel, who participated in five plays against Clemson.

Manuel attempted two passes before Saturday night. He was for 0-2 and was sacked once.
Ponder and the offense has carried FSU this season as the defense has struggled.

FSU now turns to the talented but inexperienced Manuel.

"It's tough, but there's nothing you can do it about it," FSU coach Bobby Bowden said about turning to Manuel. "It is kind of scary ... How is he going to play in a game? I'm anxious to see."

Manuel has taken most of the snaps during last week's practice after Ponder bruised ribs against N.C. State.

"He looked pretty good. I felt watching him last week he really improved."

Bowden added: "(Manuel) hasn't gone under fire (yet)."

Manuel was a Parade All-American at Virginia Beach (Va.) Bayside where he accounted for 7,400 yards and 68 touchdowns.

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