By Jay Coulter
jccoulter@gmail.com
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The team is remaining tight lipped about the situation. We reported Tuesday that Lester's status appeared to be uncertain. In an ominous move, Tommy Tuberville made the running backs off limits to the media this week.
There's no word tonight on how long the suspension will last. Several sources have confirmed that the suspension is related to academics.
This is potentially bad news long-term. If Lester has failed a course during the summer semester, he could be declared ineligible for the season. Again, this is just speculation. Hopefully, we'll learn more tomorrow.
Lester rushed for 510 yards last year and lead the team with nine touchdowns. Ben Tate is expected to start against Kansas State. Look for fullback Carl Stewart to also see some time at tailback.
Update: Sources now say that Lester's suspension is related to the same issue that forced him to miss the Cotton Bowl in January. There are a lot of conflicting reports going around tonight. We'll keep digging.