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<H1 class=storyTitle>http://sports.espn.g...tory?id=3798417




All-America tackle barred from Sugar Bowl</H1>

Alabama junior offensive tackle Andre Smith has been suspended and will not play in the Allstate Sugar Bowl, Alabama coach Nick Saban said Monday.

Smith, the Outland Trophy winner this season, was a huge part of the Crimson Tide's offensive success. They were second in the SEC and 22nd nationally in rushing offense and routinely ran to his side on key downs. He's widely considered to be one of the best left tackles to play in the SEC in the last decade.

Sources told ESPN.com that Smith's suspension was related to improper dealings with an agent. Saban's statement on the matter said only that it was due to violation of team rules and policies.

Smith was sent home from New Orleans, where the Crimson Tide arrived Saturday to begin final preparations for Friday's game. Left guard Mike Johnson was practicing in Smith's spot at left tackle on Monday, and sophomore David Ross moved into the starting rotation at left guard.

"The University of Alabama, the team and the football program are more important than any individual player," Saban said in a statement. "Everyone on our team depends on each other to be responsible, to make good choices and decisions relative to their actions."

Also in his statement, Saban appeared to hint that Smith would not return to the program.

"Andre Smith has done an outstanding job in our program as a person, student and a player and we will do all we can as an institution to support him in all future endeavors," Saban said.

Smith, a consensus All-American, was projected as a top-five selection in the NFL draft if he decides to come out, which most observers feel he will.

Saban said in his statement that Alabama would not be distracted in its preparation to play unbeaten Utah in the Sugar Bowl.

"Our priority and focus as a team is to play the best football game of the season in this Sugar Bowl, and to support our players to overcome any adversity this unfortunate situation has created," Saban said.

College football blogger Chris Low covers the SEC.

[chiefsfaninky]

I like him better than Oher...if he is there, I'd take him. Prefer to trade down, but highly unlikey, unless it is to 4 - 7. Then go best DE/LB available....and get another pick or 3.