Injuries may keep Goodenough, NesSmith out for TTU

Southeast Missouri State University's football team has been hit hard by injuries all season -- and now the Indians have two more key ones to contend with.

Coach Tim Billings said Monday that quarterback Andrew Goodenough -- who has started the past two games -- and wide receiver Chris NesSmith -- second on the squad with 39 catches -- are questionable for Saturday's contest at Tennessee Tech.

Goodenough injured his ribs late in the fourth quarter of Saturday's 52-35 victory over Tennessee State. NesSmith banged up a knee against the Tigers. The status of both is day-to-day.

"It's probably one of the most frustrating years I've had in coaching with so many injuries," Billings said. "Our kids have shown a lot of heart by battling through the injuries."

If Goodenough can't play at Tennessee Tech, Southeast has an experienced backup. Jack Tomco, last year's record-setting quarterback and the starter much of this season before being replaced by Goodenough, led a late touchdown drive Saturday that helped seal the victory.

"We're very fortunate we have Jack if Andrew can't go," Billings said. "Jack's won a whole lot of football games for us."

Billings also said Jeromy McDowell, who has not suited up the past several games because of a shoulder injury, is likely to practice some this week and could be available at Tennessee Tech to at least serve as the backup if Goodenough is out.East leaves program

Sophomore Jeff East, who saw limited action as a reserve quarterback last year and has not played at all this season after being moved to receiver, recently left the team and plans to transfer to a Division II program, where he hopes to return to quarterback.

"We wish Jeff well," Billings said. "He's a great kid and we enjoyed having him."

mmishow@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 132