Coach Kermit Blount said this week that he hoped all of his players at Winston-Salem State would stay on the boat through the rough waters of a so-far winless season.
But not all have. The running backs listed 1-2 on the depth chart -- fifth-year senior Brandon McRae and freshman David Ahola -- have quit the team.
"There were just some issues internally with the coaches, and I just wasn't seeing eye-to-eye with them," McRae said.
McRae, who battled wrist injuries in 2007 and 2008, said he's on track to graduate in May and wants to focus on his studies. He had his best game this season Oct. 3 in a 7-3 loss to Howard (12 carries, 61 yards) and finished the season with 103 yards on 22 carries. He led the team in rushing as a freshman in 2006 with 623 yards.
"There's a lot of stuff happening, and it's hard to take for some of the guys," McRae said. "From the announcement of going back to Division II and the losing, there's a lot bearing down on the program."
Blount could not be reached for comment. Offensive coordinator Alan Hall said: "We just have to go with the other running backs we have. That's really all we can do at this point."
Ahola made one start Sept. 26 against S.C. State but hasn't played much since. He ran 26 times for 90 yards, fourth on the team.
With Ced Hickman battling an injured shoulder and doubtful for Saturday's game at California Davis, junior Nathan Munford and freshman John Harris might get more carries. Munford has rushed 22 times for 89 yards this season, Harris seven for 19.
"Nate and John have been getting some work in practice, and they've got some game experience," Hall said.
jdell@wsjournal.com | 727-4081
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