OPELT OUT FOR SPRING GAME

April 9, 2009 - Head coach Tim Beckman announced this afternoon that starting quarterback Aaron Opelt will not play in the Spring game due to injury. According to Beckman, Opelt made a long run, and in the process of being tackled, landed on his shoulder.

"Aaron had an injury that happened last Friday," Beckman said. "He injured his right shoulder and we felt it was best that we keep Aaron out for the rest of the spring.

The injury will not require surgery and should heal in time with rest.

Unfortunately, Opelt has suffered a string of injuries during his UT career, but at least this one wasn't during the season and he should be able to play when August camp begins.

Beckman said that he has been impressed with Opelt's backup D.J. Lenehan, and mentioned that he has improved his arm strength. Alex Petee has also been impressive this spring and is getting reps with the first team.

Opelt isn't the only player who has been injured this spring. WR Robin Bailey and RB Jake Walker will not play in the spring game as well. Walker is still recovering from a neck injury. DaJuane Collins had an ankle injury early in camp, but has returned to his starting spot.

Offensive lineman Jan Gewont, cornerback Desmond Marrow and defensive back Anthony King are players who have missed the entire spring because of injury.

But the news isn't all bad. Beckman has been very happy with the defense, and said that the team is playing fast and doing the things they need to do to be successful. "The defensive line has made the biggest strides," he said. "The young kids are playing very well, and (defensive end) Derrick Summers has had as good a camp as anybody." Beckman also singled out Malcolm Riley as another defensive lineman that has made great progress.

Another defensive player who has had a standout spring is Isaiah Ballard. Playing the hybrid "star" position (safety/outside linebacker), Ballard has done a "fabulous" job and impressed the entire coaching staff according to Beckman.