Tech Notebook: Ore returns to top of depth chart at RB
BLACKSBURG - It didn't take long for Virginia Tech running back Branden Ore to move back up the depth chart.
The 2006 first-team All-ACC pick was demoted to third-string when he showed up to camp out of shape. It took less than two weeks for him to earn back his starting spot.
"He came in and understood exactly where he was and why the other guys were in front of him," Tech coach Frank Beamer said. "He didn't say a word. He just went out there and worked.
"I thought he performed well in the scrimmage Saturday. He made a couple of moves. You kind of understand how this guy is capable of getting a couple-hundred yards in a ballgame. I like the way he's approached this preseason. He's just worked. No excuses, just work."
Branden Ore, however, still has competition from sophomore Kenny Lewis, Jr., who is listed as a co-starter right now.
Branden Ore, a junior who rushed for 1,137 yards and 16 touchdowns last season, is again expected to carry a big load for Tech's offense this year, but Lewis is expected to get a share of the carries as well.
"We don't want to put the load all on one guy, so hopefully we can get somebody in there to help him out," Lewis said.
Hyman's case dropped
The credit card fraud charges against Hokies wide receiver Josh Hyman were dropped because of a lack of evidence, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Hyman's ex-girlfriend accused him of using her debit card to make a $49.99 purchase without her permission. Credit card fraud of less than $200 is considered the most severe kind of misdemeanor.
"Like we said from the beginning, what Josh was alleged to have done never happened," Hyman's attorney David Sullivan told the Times-Dispatch.
Banner class
Some might argue that Tech's 2003 recruiting class was the best the school has seen. Nine players projected to start this season were a part of that class, including standout linebackers Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi and future NFL offensive lineman Duane Brown.
David Clowney, now a wide receiver with the Green Bay Packers, was also part of that class.
Beamer thinks the 2007 class could be just as special.
"I don't know how many are going to end up playing (this year), but I still think this is the best group we've ever had," he said. "They're talented players, and I really like what they are about as people. They are good people. I think we're going to be proud at Tech that they are on our side."
Tech's coaching staff hasn't made a final decision on how many true freshmen will play this season. There's a group of about six first-year players who could see playing time this year.
Might blue chip quarterback Tyrod Taylor be one of them?
"Not right now. You never say never. You don't know what's going to happen with the quarterback situation tomorrow, but he's a guy that we think has a great future," Beamer said.
Of the freshmen in camp, Beamer said those with the best chance of playing this year are defensive tackle Kwamaine Battle, offensive linemen Jaymes Brooks and Blake Dechristopher, tight end Chris Drager, cornerback Cris Hill and safety Davon Morgan.
Noting the kickers
Beamer said he has been pleased with the performance of the kickers and punters so far in practice.
Jud Dunlevy still has a hold on the starting kicker job, and Brent Bowden is the top punter. Jared Develli is expected to handle kickoff duties like last season, but if the Hokies need a long field goal, Develli might be called on.
According to a published report, Develli kicked a 70-yard field goal in practice last week.
"I didn't see that," Beamer said. "They were on the other side of the field."
Extra points
Fans can get another look at the Hokies on Saturday. Their 3 p.m. scrimmage at Lane Stadium is open to the public. ... Linebacker Matt Wright joined the team Tuesday for his first practice of the season. He was held out because of an injury, according to a school press release. Cornerback Roland Minor has yet to return. He is still waiting on a summer school grade.
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