Tennessee Tailback Out

Tennessee’s starting tailback, Cedric Houston, will miss Saturday’s game against Arkansas because of a torn ligament in his left thumb.

Coach Phillip Fulmer said Houston was hurt in the Volunteers’ 35-14 win Saturday over Rutgers. He had surgery Monday and will be out 10 days, meaning he could be back in time to play against Georgia on Oct. 12.

Houston started the first three games for No. 10 Tennessee (3-1, 0-1 Southeastern Conference) but deeply bruised his thigh early in the Florida game Sept. 21. He remains Tennessee’s leading rusher this season with 193 yards in 28 carries and three touchdowns.

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North Carolina State tailback T.A. McLendon broke a bone in his right wrist but is expected to recover in time to play in the Wolfpack’s next game on Oct. 12. McLendon is scheduled to have surgery today.... Police at Florida are investigating a break-in to Kentucky’s locker room in which a robber stole several hundred dollars from the wallets of Wildcat Coach Guy Morriss and his assistants. Kentucky lost to No. 6 Florida, 41-34, last Saturday.... Vanderbilt quarterback Jay Cutler was suspended from the team for an unspecified violation of team rules.... Ohio State released Derek Morris from his national letter of intent, school officials said.... Eastern Kentucky Coach Roy Kidd, 70, will retire at the end of the season after 39 years and more than 300 victories. Kidd (310-121-8) told players of the decision Sunday night.