Genus doubtful for UConn

Posted Nov 30, 2009 by Gregg Becnel

Updated Nov 30, 2009 at 10:43 PM

University of South Florida junior C Sampson Genus, who has started every game this season, didn’t practice Monday with an ankle injury and could miss Saturday’s game at Connecticut.

“It’s doubtful that we play him because of his ankle,” Coach Jim Leavitt said. “We’re just going to get treatment all week and we’ll see. That’ll be at the end of the week. That’s all I’ll say right now because I won’t know until Friday.”

If Genus can’t play, sophomore Kevin McCaskill will make his first career start.

“Kevin McCaskill is our No. 2 center, so he’s working right now with the ones,” Leavitt said. “He’s been here three years. It’s about time he got a shot at it. He should be fine.”

Also, sophomore SS Jerrell Young (ankle) was in a protective walking boot after practice. His status for UConn is unknown, Leavitt said.

ANOTHER CHALLENGE: After USF failed to slow down Miami’s running game in a 31-10 loss, the Bulls (7-4, 3-3 Big East) face another potent rushing attack when they take on the Huskies (6-5, 2-4) in the regular-season finale.

UConn will try to duplicate Miami’s game plan in which the Hurricanes ran through – and over – USF’s defense to amass 240 yards, the most given up by the Bulls this season.

“Miami did a lot of damage,” Leavitt said. “And UConn is one of the best running teams in the country. … They’re going to try to run the ball right at us. I don’t think there’s any question about it; I would.”

The Huskies, third in the Big East in rushing with 176.9 yards per game, are led by sophomore RB Jordan Todman (1,079 yards, 14 TDs) and senior RB Andre Dixon (917 yards, 11 TDs).

“You’re not going to stop them,” Leavitt said. “They’re going to run the ball. They’ve done it on everybody. But you’ve got to try to slow it down somewhat.”

ODDS AND ENDS: USF holds a 4-2 advantage in the all-time series with UConn. The programs have split their four Big East meetings, however, with the home team winning each time. … Saturday’s game will air on ESPN2 at 8 p.m. … WR Jessie Hester will wear Keeley Dorsey’s No. 10 jersey this week.