Aug. 22, 2002

DALLAS-Carrying on a fine tradition of Miami University running backs, junior Cal Murray (Dublin, Ohio/Bishop Watterson) has been honored as one of 42 preseason candidates for the prestigious Doak Walker Award, which is awarded annually to the nation's top college running back.

Murray who enters the 2002 campaign as the RedHawks' starting running back, averaged an impressive 7.3 yards per carry a year ago and has totaled 706 yards rushing and eight touchdowns in part-time action during his first two seasons. Last season, Murray enjoyed a career day at Ball State, rushing for 183 yards and three touchdowns. As a freshman, Murray tied a Miami record with four rushing touchdowns in a defeat of Kent State.

The front-runner in a deep stable of Miami running backs that also includes junior Luke Clemens (Dayton, Ohio/Bellbrook) and sophomores Mike Smith (Twinsburg, Ohio/Twinsburg) and Jay Wallace (Martins Ferry, Ohio), Murray, who has added 30 pounds since his freshman season, exploded on the scene during the off-season to earn the starting role.

The Doak Walker Award, which was awarded for the first time in 1990, is named after a legendary SMU running back and defensive back who was a three-time All-American in the late 1940's. Awarded by the SMU Athletic Forum, the recipient is selected on the basis of excellence on the field, in the classroom and in the community.