HUNTSVILLE, Al. - Alabama A&M inside linebacker Afu Okosun, who was forced to sit out the first two games after being suspended by the NCAA after it was revealed he played in a game his redshirt year in 2006, is expected to be back Saturday against Texas Southern.
A&M coach Anthony Jones says Lumpkin and Okosun will play, but he didn't say who would start.
"Larry is still going to continue to play," he said. "We're not going to penalize him when Afu returns and we're not going to penalize Afu for having to sit out. They both will play.
"I'm not caught up with the term starter. I'm more concerned with who's playing and who's playing well. They both will play. Exactly how they'll play, I don't know at this time."
Green set to play
Running back Tony Green, who suffered a concussion after a helmet-to-helmet hit in the season opener against Tennessee State and sat out Saturday's game against Central State for precautionary reasons, will play Saturday against Texas Southern, Jones said.
Green, expected to play a key role in A&M's running game, struggled in the opener, managing just 14 yards on 10 carries. He also had two catches for 27 yards and had a nine-yard punt return.
The game will be a homecoming of sorts for Green, who is from San Antonio.
Wilson shines in kicks
Punter Chance Wilson, who took over placekicking duties this season after Jeremy Licea graduated, has been terrific through A&M's first two games.
Wilson is averaging almosts 39 yards per punt and has six inside the 20-yard line. He has made all eight of his extra points and his only field goal attempt.
"He wanted it all, he has it all and he's doing great job right now," Jones said. "I couldn't be more pleased with what Chance is doing. He's playing exceptional football."
Turnover problems
The Bulldogs fumbled seven times against Central State and lost three of them. A&M has committed five turnovers - three fumbles and two interceptions - through its first two games.
"We'll go back this week to ball security drills and fumble recovery drills," Jones said. "That's way too many turnovers and completely unacceptable."
