With Joe Doss recovering from a knee sprain, T.J. Pitts moves into a starting role Saturday at Arkansas State.

It appears as if Pitts will be better prepared for his second career start.

Pitts, a 5-10, 203-pound freshman from Gainesville, Ga., has been running with power and confidence since last year’s finale at UTEP. Pitts gained 40 yards on four carries and scored his first career touchdown.

It will be interesting to see how he responds. Doss is one of the most fundamentally sound running backs the program has had under coach Tommy West. Rarely do you see Doss miss a block, drop a pass or fail to get the extra yard.

Pitts may have a ways to go in being a complete back, but should provide a physical presence and be someone capable of picking up the tough yards.