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Belton practices, squashes rumors
The Internet was abuzz about strong-armed passer's imminent transfer, but coach says he's still a key player for the RedHawks.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
OXFORD — Miami University quarterback Clay Belton was back at practice Wednesday, Sept. 24, apparently dispelling rumors this week that he was transferring to another school.
Belton, a redshirt freshman from Clayton Northmont High School, practiced in full pads, could be seen talking and laughing with teammates and seemed energized during his time on the Yager Stadium turf.
Hardly the picture of a player on his way out.
Belton was absent from practice Tuesday, but after that practice, Miami coach Shane Montgomery said Belton still was on the team.
"We had some discussions about things," Montgomery said Wednesday. "We talked, the way we talk with all the kids on the team. Like everybody else, we let him know where he stands."
Belton was not made available for comment after practice.
Junior Daniel Raudabaugh edged Belton for the starting job during preseason competition.
Belton has seen only small slices of playing time at the end of Miami's last three games as the backup, but Montgomery said he still holds a key position on the team because of the ever-present possibility of an injury.
"You need two quarterbacks," the Miami coach said. "There are so many quarterbacks going down. You're always one snap away from playing. He realizes that, and he's ready to go."
Montgomery said he does not want to alternate quarterbacks, although he would like to see Belton gain experience.
"The way the first four games have gone, it's been difficult," Montgomery said. "The perfect scenario would be in one of the early games to get a lead and get him into a normal game situation."
Miami (1-3) has trailed at halftime in all four of its games so far this season.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2197 or pconrad@coxohio.com.
