Former MSU tackle set to play for Valley

[rebelduckaholic]

August 17, 2005
Former MSU tackle set to play for Valley


Richard Burch still faces felony charge of selling marijuana

By Mark Alexander
malexander@clarionledger.com



Burch


Former Mississippi State offensive lineman Richard Burch has resurfaced at Mississippi Valley State.

Burch, who was arrested earlier this year and charged with the sale of more than one ounce of marijuana, is expected to start at left tackle for the Delta Devils.

"Hey, sometimes your prayers are answered," Valley coach Willie Totten said following Tuesday's practice. "We were looking for a left tackle, we needed a left tackle. And now we've got one, a good one. He's got a big body, he runs well and he's got quick feet."
Burch, 21, was suspended by Mississippi State coach Sylvester Croom following his Jan. 24 arrest in Starkville.

Burch is out on $5,000 bond. Charles Yoste, his attorney, told The Clarion-Ledger last month that Burch was bound over by the Starkville Municipal Court to the Oktibbeha County grand jury, which is slated to meet in October. The grand jury decides if he will stand trial for the charges.

The charge carries a maximum penalty of a $1 million fine and/or 30 years in prison.

Yoste could not be reached for comment Tuesday. Burch was also unavailable for comment.

At Valley, Burch rejoins former teammate Aries Nelson. Nelson, a quarterback, transferred from MSU to Valley prior to last season and was the SWAC's newcomer of the year.

"I know he got into some trouble at another school, but I don't know that much about it," Totten said about Burch. "I'm not really concerned about that. The only thing I'm concerned about is that he's eligible to play.

"There may or may not be a ruling," Totten continued. "Until there is a ruling, he's going to play."

Burch, who is 6-foot-5, 315 pounds, started 25 games in his MSU career. He has just one season of eligibility remaining, according to Totten.

Burch withdrew from MSU shortly after he was arrested.

Burch arrived in Itta Bena about three weeks ago, Totten said. Valley was set to rely on a redshirt freshman at left tackle had Burch not joined the team.

"I think it's a good combination, a good fit for everybody," Totten said. "He's been slowed a little bit by a sore groin, but he's working to get in shape."

Burch is the second MSU offensive lineman to transfer to the SWAC, joining former Callaway standout Donovan Davis, who is now at Grambling State.


Related Articles: