MSU: Missed classes prove costly for All-SEC defensive back
STARKVILLE – Derek Pegues has never missed a game during his three years at Mississippi State.
It’s a streak that stands at 36.
However, that’s about to change for the All-SEC safety out of South Panola.
After Friday’s practice, MSU coach Sylvester Croom announced that Pegues and sophomore linebacker Karlin Brown have been suspended for the season opener at Louisiana Tech for not adhering to the school’s academic attendance policy.
The policy, mandated by the SEC, states that if student-athletes have four unexcused absences, they are suspended for one game. With eight, they aren’t allowed to play for a semester.
Last year, Pegues registered 50 tackles and five interceptions. He also averaged 9.9 yards on 27 punt returns, including a long of 75 against Ole Miss in the fourth quarter that evened the score at 14-apiece.
In his absence, it’s likely that Zach Smith or De’Mon Glanton will draw the start.
djournal.com
8/9/08
