By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
Aug. 13, 2001
HATTIESBURG Without a doubt, former Southeast Lauderdale Tiger Torrin Tucker has been a versatile and solid starter on the offensive line for the University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles during the his first two seasons here.
Look for more of the same this fall as Tucker (junior, 6-6, 316 pounds) and his Golden Eagle teammates prepare to kick off the 2001 football season at home against Oklahoma State on Sept. 1,
All-Conference
Tucker was named to the preseason All-Conference USA teams selected by Athlon Magazine and The Sporting News. He started 11 games last season and has consistently received the highest grades from the coaching staff after they reviewed the films.
The USM football program has been champion of Conference USA in three of its five seasons of existence. At one point last season, the Golden Eagles were ranked 13th in the nation by the Associated Press poll. They stood at 6-1 before injuries to key personnel finally took their toll. USM would lose three of its next four games to Conference USA foes.
That took the Golden Eagles out of the running for another conference championship. They did, however, rally to defeated Texas Christian University 28-21 in the GMAC Mobile Bowl and finished 8-4.
Tucker, a sports administration major, said his personal goal is to be the best guard in the conference. He is the son of Hattie Tucker and the late John Tucker.
No respect?
USM has been picked to finish third overall in Conference USA, something that didn't seem to bother head coach Jeff Bower too much on Sunday.
Wet grounds sent the Golden Eagles indoors Saturday, and there is some question about Monday's practice plans.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.