Warm-Weather Practices a Kick for Washington State’s Lindell

Practicing for the Rose Bowl has been bliss for Washington State kicker Rian Lindell.

In wintry conditions back in Pullman, Wash., he once took off his shirt and put it down on the snow to get traction as he kicked.

“Needless to say, I didn’t kick very long,” Lindell said. “It wasn’t snowing at the time, but there was snow on the ground--and it wasn’t melting.”

Working out at the Coliseum has been a breeze.

“It’s 60 degrees, but it feels like 90,” he said.

Lindell, a sophomore, had the job of replacing Cougar kicker Tony “The Toe” Truant, and he came through with a strong season, making 56 of 58 extra-point attempts and two field goals longer than 50 yards--including a 57-yarder against Boise State.

“We knew what we had,” Coach Mike Price said. “When Tony the Toe left, everybody was calling with a cousin or a grandson. I was saying, ‘We’ve got a guy, we’ve got a guy. Relax!’ ”

Lindell made 11 of 16 field-goal attempts--with three of the misses from 49, 51 and 53 yards.

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Washington State’s practices, which were open to the public until Sunday, will be closed today and Tuesday as the Cougars work on trick plays and other preparation specifically for Michigan.

“It’s been great because we’ve had so many friends and family who got to be a part of it, but unfortunately there are some things we need to do behind closed doors,” Price said.

Michigan, by contrast, has held practices that are closed to both fans and the media.

“That’s Michigan. They can do whatever they want,” Price said. “The reason somebody’s going to win or lose the game is the football players. The game is decided between the lines.”

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Washington State remains in good shape on the injury front, although strong safety Torry Hollimon is hobbled by a torn leg muscle. Hollimon might not be able to play much, but he will dress for the game.

The good news is that Duane Stewart, the starter at Hollimon’s position the first eight games, will start again after sitting out the final three because of a knee injury.

In addition, backup quarterback Steve Birnbaum, who missed a day of practice because of a strained back, has returned to practice and should be ready if needed.