Alabama Defender Ineligible

Alabama senior defensive end Chris Hood was ruled academically ineligible for the season, Coach Mike DuBose said. . . . Clint Finley, Nebraska’s projected starter at free safety, strained a knee ligament during practice Monday and is doubtful for the Aug. 29 season opener against Louisiana Tech. . . . Washington State players will wear the initials “L.B.” on their helmets in dedicating this season to Leon Bender, a former teammate who died May 30 of a “seizure disorder.”