~ The Redhawks' second-leading tackler last year recently had knee surgery
Southeast Missouri State hasn't started football practice yet, but the Redhawks already know they'll be without one of their top defensive players for the entire season.
Coach Tony Samuel confirmed Friday that senior free safety Bryan Blanfort recently underwent surgery for a torn ACL and won't suit up this year.
The 6-foot-1, 190-pound Blanfort, a native of Miami, will be able to redshirt this season and play his senior campaign in 2011.
"He's done some great things for us, but he'll get this year back and hopefully come back even stronger next year," Samuel said.
Blanfort missed much of spring practice with an undisclosed injury, which apparently was to the knee.
Blanfort was Southeast's second-leading tackler last year with 79. He also was second with two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. He added three pass break-ups and two forced fumbles.
Blanfort also started most of his sophomore season in 2008, ranking second on the squad with three interceptions and sixth with 54 tackles. He saw extensive action off the bench in 2007 as a true freshman.
"Somebody will have to step up at that position," Samuel said. "We'll see how things go [in practice]."
Southeast begins fall camp Tuesday when players report. The first practice will be Thursday.
"We're looking forward to getting started," Samuel said.
The Redhawks open the season Sept. 2 at Division I-A Ball State.
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