Billings sticks with freshman QB plan

A day after Southeast Missouri State's latest loss, coach Tim Billings stayed firm with his original decision that true freshman quarterback Markus Mosley will start the Redhawks' next game.

Mosley replaced struggling senior Mike Haley early in the fourth quarter Thursday night at Samford, the Redhawks trailing 26-17 at the time.

Southeast (0-5, 0-2 Ohio Valley Conference) suffered a 33-17 defeat, but Billings said immediately after the contest that Mosley would make his first college start when the Redhawks host Eastern Illinois on Oct. 8.

Friday afternoon, Billings said he hadn't changed his mind regarding Mosley, who saw his first collegiate action against Samford. He had been elevated to the backup spot after Kevin Ballatore suffered a broken foot while making his first start Saturday against Jacksonville State.

"Yes, we're going to go with him and see what he can do," Billings said. "We'll see how he does, and go from there. We'll give him an opportunity."

Haley, who has started four of Southeast's five games, completed 15 of 32 passes for 175 yards Thursday, with one touchdown and one interception, which came on a desperation pass on the final play of the opening half.

Haley leads the OVC with 10 interceptions, and he has thrown for just three touchdowns. Southeast's offense has scored only seven touchdowns all season.

Mosley completed six of 10 passes for 94 yards, with two interceptions. Twice he drove the Redhawks inside Samford's 20-yard line, but one drive ended in an interception and the other in a missed field goal.

Billings said he has not given up on Haley, who could still figure into Southeast's plans.

"We're not giving up on him, and I hope he hasn't given up, that's the key," Billings said. "It's just that he's had his opportunities. We need him to lead the team and make plays, and he just hasn't done it."

AuBuchon out for season

Safety Reggie AuBuchon, who has seen action in all five games as a backup safety and on special teams, suffered a season-ending injury Thursday.

AuBuchon, a North County High School product, was hurt early in the third quarter and had to be carted off the field. He reportedly suffered a badly broken leg. He was taken to a Birmingham hospital, where he will likely remain for a few days.

AuBuchon was a starter last year and tied for the team lead in interceptions with four.

"He's a great kid and it's a shame," Billings said.