Clemson Football Practice Brief

Aug. 17, 2007

Clemson, SC – Clemson’s football practice on Friday began with Coach Tommy Bowden’s announcement to the team that sophomore running back Ray Ray McElrathbey would be lost for the season due to a torn ACL. The injury took place in practice on Thursday.

“I really hate this for Ray Ray,” said Bowden. “He was doing very well at running back. He had a good spring and had been doing well in the preseason. He did well in the scrimmage last Saturday.

“At this point we don’t plan on moving another player to running back. Paul Macko will be the fourth back. If we get someone else hurt we will have to move someone. The development of Sadat Chambers as the third back is very important. We will look at him with a sense of urgency.

McElrathbey lettered last year as a defensive back and special teams player. He played in every game and had six tackles in the 13 games. He received national attention last year when he adopted his now 12-year old brother Fahmar, who still lives with him in Clemson.

“At first I was upset,” said McElrathbey. “But, I am past that now. Sometimes God tests you in different ways and it makes you stronger in the end. I am looking forward to having the surgery in a couple of weeks so I can start rehabilitation and get ready for next year.”

While Clemson lost on running back, another returned to practice on Friday. First-team All-ACC running back James Davis returned after missing two days of practice. He was at full strength on Friday and will play in Saturday’s scrimmage. The same was true for starting offensive tackle Christian Capote.

Eight players continue to miss practice due to injury. The list includes Antwon Murchison (concussion), Josh Miller (oral surgery), Ricky Sapp (sprained ankle), Dorell Scott (sprained ankle), Jamie Cumbie (shoulder), Brandon Maye (foot), and Drew Traylor (foot).

The Tigers will work in Clemson Memorial Stadium for a morning scrimmage on Saturday. It is closed to the public and the media. The Tigers will have Sunday off.