COLLEGE FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : AROUND THE NATION : Frazier’s Season Now in Doubt

Nebraska quarterback Tommie Frazier, a leading contender for the Heisman Trophy, might be lost for the season after the discovery Tuesday of a new blood clot in his leg.

He was hospitalized and Coach Tom Osborne said the 20-year-old junior quarterback apparently will stay on blood thinners for three to six months.

“Which means the rest of the season is in jeopardy and doubt for him,” Osborne told a Lincoln, Neb., television station. “I doubt if he will play any more this year.”

Frazier spent four days in the hospital last month while a clot near his right knee was dissolved by enzymes and blood-thinners. The school’s medical staff said surgery is being considered.

The new clot was discovered when Frazier underwent tests at Bryan Memorial Hospital on Tuesday. Frazier had received approval to return to practice this week, but that was delayed after he said his leg was still sore.

*

Ohio State place-kicker Mike Malfatt pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of misdemeanor theft for stealing $445 worth of merchandise from a discount store in August. He was given a suspended six-month sentence and placed on probation for one year. The athlete also must perform 80 hours of community service and pay a $250 fine and court costs.

*

After three years on NBC, the Heisman Trophy show is switching to ESPN, which will televise the announcement of the 1994 winner during a one-hour telecast Dec. 10. The show begins at 4:30 p.m. PST.