Murray State University Athletics
Deutch's jersey number is always on his mind
8/25/2005 12:00:00 AM | Football
In most occasions, offensive linemen aren't the most marketable athletes. Fans rarely see their face, or much less, hear their name unless it occurs on a penalty. But ask anyone on this year's 2005 Murray State football team who has the best hair, and the overwhelming and nearly unanimous favorite is senior offensive lineman Richard Deutch.
"Richard has one of the most unusual haircuts I have ever seen in my life," Racer head coach Joe Pannunzio said. "Not many people shave their heads bald and leave their uniform number (71) in their heads. (Senior safety) Tony Ryan is a better barber than I thought."
On a more serious note, not many people realize that offensive linemen are the key to having a successful offensive unit. Last season, Deutch and the offensive line were very good for the Racers, who ranked second in the Ohio Valley Conference with 219.5 rushing yards per game.
The offensive linemen on this year's Racer squad are mostly all veterans, led by seniors Deutch, Phillip Hall, Eugene Russell (an All-OVC Second Team performer last season) and juniors Jonathan Harper, Chris Mauga, Matt Garrett, Wayne Lomax and Damius Robinson.
Deutch began his career at the University of Cincinnati before coming to the Racers in 2003. Before the 6-5, 290-pound Deutch played in college, he enjoyed a stellar prep career at Moeller High School in Cincinnati, one of the top programs in the nation.
"Richard came from a real good high school in Moeller High School, which is one of the most famous high schools in the nation for producing great athletes," Pannunzio said. "He's become a real solid football player for us, and at right tackle, he is our leader on the offensive line. He and Phillip Hall are the cornerstones of our offensive line."
CAMP NOTES: Today, the Racers worked on offenses that run the "bunch," offenses using all running backs and wide receivers all in one big cluster. "There are lots of teams that are starting to go to that," Pannunzio said, "and we need to learn how to defend it." Also for the first time today, the Racers lined up for formations similar to what Mississippi State uses. Murray State will visit the Bulldogs in its season-opener.
INJURY REPORT: Sophomore Ben Rush was back in action today, seeming to recover from his nagging ankle injury. However, Pannunzio said that a lot of the minor injuries are back, adding, "In my 22 years of coaching, we are at an all-time high in injuries."
TAKING ITS TOLL: Senior wide receiver Danny Rumley was in charge of the Mississippi State cowbell today for a portion of the practice, constantly ringing it to get his teammates used to the sound of cowbells expected on Sept. 3 at Mississippi State.
KIDS CLINIC SATURDAY: Fans are reminded that a free Kids Clinic will be held on Saturday around 3:15 p.m. at the practice field for all elementary age boys and girls. The Racers will hold their final scrimmage on Saturday around 2 or 2:30 p.m., then the Clinic will be held with the Racer players and coaches.
