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OXFORD — Sure, the Miami University football team has the talent, experience and depth to win a second straight Mid-American Conference East Division title and finish with its first overall winning record in three years.

But first, the RedHawks need to stay away from that ugly, eight-letter word which — as far as coach Shane Montgomery is concerned — is far worse than any four-letter word: injuries.

"You cannot plan for injuries," said Montgomery, whose team is scheduled to hold its fourth spring practice session today, April 3. "The only thing you can do it hope you've recruited well enough where you have guys who can step up."

The RedHawks have been riddled with injuries the last two seasons. In 2006, the offensive line was decimated. Last fall, Miami's top two tailbacks were limited to a total of 48 carries.

This year's RedHawks have not escaped the injury bug, either.

• Junior strong-side linebacker Caleb Bostic, the team's second-leading tackler in 2007, had recent foot surgery and will miss spring practice.

• Three other linebackers, senior Mickey Mann and sophomores Dexter Korto and Donnie Hardy, are sidelined with various ailments.

• Junior tailback Andre Bratton, whose knee injury limited him to action in just three games last season, will miss spring ball, and Montgomery can only hope he will be ready for preseason practice.

• Senior punter Jacob Richardson, a Ray Guy Award candidate, will miss spring ball with a foot injury.

• Junior wide receiver Dustin Woods, who had 1,109 receiving yards the last two years, is coming off shoulder surgery and will miss his second straight spring.

• Junior long snapper Chase Collins (foot surgery) and senior defensive lineman Nick DeBartolo (knee injury) will miss the spring, and sophomore defensive back Brandon Stephens (high ankle sprain) and junior offensive tackle Zachary Marshall (wrist surgery) will miss at least part of spring ball.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2197

or pconrad@coxohio.com.

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