Tennessee likely without freshman QBs for Cotton Bowl

[DJRamFan]

Dec. 27, 2004
SportsLine.com wire reports

IRVING, Texas -- Both of Tennessee's freshman quarterbacks may be out for the Cotton Bowl.

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Junior Rick Clausen will start as planned in Saturday's game against Texas A&M (7-4).

The Vols (9-3) had hoped freshman Brent Schaeffer would be able to play some after returning for the first time since breaking his collarbone Oct. 30 at South Carolina.

But Schaeffer has been unable to practice in Texas because of with flu-like symptoms.

Coach Phillip Fulmer said on Monday that Schaeffer was "day-to-day," and hoped he would practice Tuesday.

"Outside (Tuesday) it's going to be very difficult for him to be able to play. I'm hopeful to get him back. If we get him back (Tuesday) or maybe even Wednesday and Thursday if (he) can practice, he might be able to help us," Fulmer said. "But it's almost beyond the point now where he can't get enough work to get it done. It's unfortunate."

Schaeffer was able to practice in Knoxville, Tenn., before the players went home for Christmas. Tennessee began practice here on Sunday.

The Vols' other freshman QB -- Erik Ainge -- hasn't played since separating his shoulder against Notre Dame on Nov. 6. He will not play in the Cotton Bowl, Fulmer said.

Clausen has started the last three games in place of the freshmen.

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