College Football
Monday, January 3
Travis plays no Minor role with FSU
By Brent Kallestad
Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS -- Travis Minor doesn't get as many carries as the country's star tailbacks. He also doesn't get the recognition.

Yet on Tuesday, he'll be the envy of them all as his Florida State Seminoles play Virginia Tech for the national title.

Travis Minor
Travis Minor has rushed for 2,295 yards in three seasons at FSU.

"A lot of guys out there with 1,500 yards are going to be watching us on the 4th," Minor said.

The junior has run for 2,295 yards in three seasons to rank fifth on Florida State's career list. And while his numbers might not be as impressive as those of other tailbacks, he plays his best in big games.

Minor averaged 100 yards in three games against rival Florida and 98 yards in seven games against Top 10 teams in his career.

"It's a matter of whenever the coaches call your number, you'd better be ready for it," he said. "We've all got roles."

The 6-foot, 190-pound Minor is also a top blocker and receiver, catching 64 passes in his three seasons. Running backs coach Bill Sexton says he has few flaws on the field.

"He's got strong marks across the board in all areas," Sexton said. "He's extremely tough, very intelligent and a student of the game."

Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster says it's critical that the Hokies control the Florida State running game, which ranked 83rd nationally this season.

"If you can't, that's when they like toying with you," Foster said. "If they have success running the football, then for sure you'll have to crowd eight guys around the football."

While Minor isn't as well known to fans, opposing coaches don't need an introduction.

"He's right there with some of the best we've played: (Virginia's) Thomas Jones, the kids from Miami and any other backs we've faced," Foster said.

"There is a lot of focus on Peter Warrick. If you put all your attention on one individual, they have other guys that can exploit you."

For the second time in three years, Minor will be playing in the Sugar Bowl, about an hour's drive from his home in Baton Rouge. He was recruited out of Baton Rouge Catholic High School, the same school as former Seminoles great Warrick Dunn.

Minor's biggest challenge in the week leading up to the national title game has been finding tickets for family and friends.

"Anytime you get a chance to come back home it's great," he said. "Except for tickets. They're so hard to come by that I had to quit doing that."

Whether it'll be block, catch or run, Minor says he's ready.

"We have so many great athletes, it's not going to be just run the ball."

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