Starks out for Missouri game

Columbia, Mo. - Starting tailback James Starks will not play in today's game against No. 5 Missouri because of a hip injury suffered during the Bulls' win last week against Temple. The injury was originally thought to be a leg bruise.

Starks practiced this week but is being held out as a precautionary measure in hopes his condition will improve for next week's game at Central Michigan. Sophomore Brandon Thermilus will start in his place while junior Mario Henry will serve as backup.

The other lineup change is true freshman Scott Pettigrew starting in place of sophomore Tom Drewes at middle linebacker to give the Bulls a more athletic presence against Missouri's spread offense. Drewes will play at middle linebacker as well as defensive end today.

---Rodney McKissic