Injury bug strikes tight end Goodson

Southeast Missouri State University's rash of injuries had primarily been limited to the defense through the first five games of the season.

But this week the offense also has been hit.

All-American tight end Ray Goodson, who did not even appear to be injured following Saturday's 35-28 loss at Eastern Illinois, underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Wednesday.

Southeast coach Tim Billings said Goodson was having problems with the knee on Sunday, and it was later determined that he had a tear in the meniscus, which is part of the cartilage.

Billings said there is a chance Goodson will be able to play in Southeast's next game, Oct. 16 against Eastern Kentucky. The Indians have an open date this week.

Goodson, a senior out of Jackson High School, is Southeast's leading receiver with 32 catches. He also led the squad last season with 66 receptions.

Besides Goodson, all-Ohio Valley Conference offensive tackle Dan Connolly has come down with a leg infection that has his status for the Eastern Kentucky game up in the air. Billings is hopeful both Goodson and Connolly will be able to play.

"They're both tough guys. If there's any way possible for them to be on the field, they will be," Billings said.

Despite the ailments to Goodson and Connolly, Billings said he anticipates the Indians (1-4, 1-1 OVC) using the open date to be perhaps as healthy as they have been all season entering the Oct. 16 home game.

"This is a big week for us, to put as healthy a football team on the field as we have in a long time," Billings said. "And also for us to evaluate ourselves and improve as a football team."