Workers under 25 more vulnerable to accidents – Scott
…calls for programmes to sensitise workersMinister within the Social Protection Ministry, Keith Scott has stated that various surveys conducted by the ministry indicated that young persons who are under the age of 25 are more susceptible to injuries at the workplace.Minister within the Social Protection Ministry, Keith ScottThis statement was made on Friday, when the Minister indicated that the key reason for this was the fact that these employees do not possess adequate experience, which would alert them to dangerous practices.“Within the rim of occupation and employment of young workers – which we consider to between the ages of 15 to 24 – is the available statistics and it shows that that area of youth are more vulnerable. They are much more exposed than the mature counterparts to occupational accidents and occupational diseases,” he said.However, Minister Scott noted that measures must be put in place to prevent these accidents, and the safety of young employees must not be jeopardised, especially those who work in perilous environments.“Attention must be paid to the health and safety of young workers who comprise a significant percentage of our population and our workforce,” the Minister stated.“The report on our most recent population and housing census shows that youth constitutes almost 20 per cent of the population. By any standards, that is not a group which should be treated lightly. They comprise the future of our nation and must be nurtured and protected at all costs,” he added.Additionally, Minister Scott has called for the establishment of formal programmes to educate employees on various practices which they should always follow when on the job. Furthermore, experienced employees should be tasked with the responsibility to ensure that the younger persons are following company guidelines and regulations. This, he said, will reduce the number of workplace hazards and accidents from a general standpoint.“There is need for policies and programmes [to be] put in place to educate, sensitise and protect them from the risk and dangers associated with work,” Scott insisted.Recently, the management of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) modified the company’s occupational outfits by incorporating reflective equipment. This is in light of the fact that employees expressed their disagreement with wearing the mandatory reflective safety vest.Minister Scott, in his final remarks, stated that the attention being placed on workers’ safety should be amplified this month, since World Day for Safety and Health at work will be celebrated on April 28. Additionally, the entire month of April is dedicated towards this observance.
Facing the challenge of not only adapting to a whole new environment, but recovering from a venomous snake bite, 16-year-old Sherwin Leonard of the Amerindian settlement of Baramita, Region One, is counting each day and praying for the day he gets to return home to his family.The recovering teenager, Sherwin Leonard, on his hospital bedHaving been air dashed to the city after the encounter with the venomous beast last week, Leonard remains hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC). He told Guyana Times he would usually go with his father to hunt, but on the fateful day, he was out hunting alone in dense forest when he accidentally stepped on the creature and it sprang up and bit him.With his leg bleeding, he killed the snake with his hunting gear, thenslowly made his way home, where he was attended to and immediately rushed to the Baramita Hospital. Nurses there treated him in an attempt to avoid the poison from spreading to other parts of his body, and he was medivaced to the city for better medical attention.The teenager said this is his first time in Georgetown, and he had never previously seen so many people. The only son for his parents, he noted that his brother-in-law is the only one who comes to visit him, since his mother takes care of his younger siblings and his father now has to hunt to feed the rest of the family.“Me nah know way me deh! Me nah even know when me go come out ah here, and dah ah wah me ah study,” the lad explained. He said that he misses home and is anxious to return to his family.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Commissioners on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are expressing grave concerns about delays in modernising the entity and the way it conducts elections.PPP Commissioners Sase Gunraj, Robeson Benn and Bibi ShadickDuring a press conference on Friday, Commissioners Robeson Benn, Sase Gunraj and Bibi Shadick took the position that Guyana’s electoral system is lagging when compared to other Caribbean countries.“I want to move on to noting also our grave concern with the lack of progress on the implementation of those issues in respect of enhanced biometrics,” Commissioner Benn stated.He expressed concerns regarding the registration and electronic verification of electors; electronic tabulation of the results of future elections in Guyana and the electronic transmission of those results.“We have had long discussions and even before we got to GECOM there have been discussions about the modernisation of our electoral system. Guyana has fallen way behind other Regional countries with respect to this matter.”“Jamaica and others have put in place systems for proper, transparent and integral verification of electors. And making sure that verification of electors is transparent.”According to Benn, even though there have been discussions, seminars and even retreats regarding the process, there has been little progress.“There appears to be great doubt in GECOM itself, with regards to the role of its officers and we think that this is a significant matter going ahead for the modernisation of the electoral system in the country.”Benn added that with future elections in mind, a revamp of the elections system in Guyana should be a priority task for GECOM.Meanwhile, Commissioner Shadick expressed surprise and concern at the recently announced start of the digitisation of 148 years of birth, marriage and death records.At the General Register Office (GRO) on Wednesday, Citizenship Minister Winston Felix had said that clerks are currently being trained to enter these records from 1987 to as far back as 1869 into a database that aims to ensure the more efficient functioning of the GRO.Felix had also said that the overall aim of the project was to ensure that each citizen has one identification card that will include all relevant information from birth.According to the Minister, biometric information such as fingerprints and possibly retinal scans that will erase the need for additional forms of identification such as a National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) would also be included.However, Shadick said that these developments are cause for concern, as this seems to be an effort to transfer the registration process to the Citizenship Ministry. Additionally, she complained of the lack of meetings at GECOM.“This is very troubling to us. You cut the budget saying that you’re not going to do any house to house registration. While the Chairman is on leave, no meetings in the Commission are being called.”“So whatever is going on is going on outside the knowledge of the six GECOM Commissioners who are constitutionally appointed.”In 2015, following the General and Regional Elections, there had been delays in releasing the results of the elections. GECOM had stated at the time that certain checks and balances in the Representation of the People’s Act had to be followed, hence those delays.Specifically, there were delays in receiving Statement of Polls from Regions such as One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).Eventually, disputed results led to the People’s Progressive Party seeking redress in the High Court.
Sanctions on RUSAL– record-keeping, working conditions inspectedOldendorff Carriers (Guyana) Inc General Manager Ulf Henriksson on Friday handed Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle details of all employees currently working at the company’s operations in the Berbice River. The presentation was made at the Department of Labour.RUSAL, the parent company of Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI), has been sanctioned by the US Government. BCGI’s operations are in Region 10. OLDENDORFF is contracted by BCGI to transport bauxite from the mine areas near Aroaima to load on ships at the mouth of the Berbice River. The US Government sanctions require that all companies doing business with those that have been sanctioned wind down operations by October 23, or they themselvesLabour officials meeting with workerswill be sanctioned.In a statement on Friday, it was noted that while there are international negotiations to get the US Government to withdraw the current sanctions, OLDENDORFF is compelled to make preparations for winding down, should such efforts fail. As a result, the company has begun to sensitise workers to the possibility that it would not be able to continue operating in Guyana.The employment information was requested by the Department of Labour in order to determine the benefits to be accrued to the employees should the company be forced to wind down operations in Guyana.The information is also expected to support the work of a cabinet-appointed task force set up to address the future of workers at RUSAL and related companies in light of USA-imposed sanctions. BCGI is OLDENDORFF’s only client in Guyana.The current situation stems from sanctions imposed on Russia on April 6 by the US Government. Seven Russian oligarchs and 12 companies they own or control, among others, have been added to what is called the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (“SDN”). Such sanctions apply to entities that are directly or indirectly owned 50 percent or more by these or other SDNs.According to the statement, OLDENDORFF has, for 12 years, been operating successfully in Guyana, and had every intention of continuing operations, until being forced to face closure of the operations here because of the US Government sanctions.It was noted that during the 12 years, the company employed and trained more than 250 persons from the Berbice area, most of whom still work for the company today. These employees have performed at the highest industry standards, and have contributed significantly to the performance efficiencies of the OLDENDORFF operation here.Speaking on Thursday during the ceremony concerned with handing over the documents to the Chief Labour Officer, OCGI General Manager Ulf Henriksson said that ‘OLDENDORFF management in Guyana and their parent company in Germany are promising to ensure that, should the company have to exit Guyana, the workers would be given proper notice.“Our employees can rest assured that we will adhere to the laws of Guyana, and they will receive what they are entitled to.“On the heels of (Thursday) handing over of the employee information, a team from the Department of Labour, Occupational Safety and Health visited OLDENDORFF’s headquarters in New Amsterdam, Berbice. The team, led by Senior Labour Officer Dexter Semple, conducted an inspection of the company’s records and working conditions.Semple also took the opportunity to speak directly with workers who assembled at the New Amsterdam Stelling. Workers had a free exchange with the Labour Officer, and registered concerns for follow up.”It is understood that OLDENDORFF suspended operations for two hours to allow the workers to attend the meeting. At the end of the meeting, OLDENDORFF managers presented each of the 115 employees gathered at the stelling with letters that provided information on the company’s response to the sanctions, and the efforts that are being taken in the workers’ interest.
The victory quieted some of the noise growing around the embattled young team, including comments by outspoken basketball patriarch LaVar Ball — father of Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball — who told ESPN that coach Luke Walton had lost the confidence of his players.“I would disagree with that,” Walton said at shootaround on Sunday morning, telling reporters that even as the defeats piled up his players were playing hard.The difference against the Hawks, Walton said after the much-needed win, was a defensive commitment that set up the Lakers’ transition offense.“I think it triggered everything for us tonight,” Walton said. “Once we got engaged and we were crashing back on the glass and able to get out and run … it was good to see the guys get back to that mode where defense anchors what we do offensively.”Lonzo Ball, playing just his second game after missing six with a shoulder sprain, was under scrutiny after his father’s latest remarks.Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers said he wasn’t expecting smooth sailing for his young players, but insisted their growing pains wouldn’t tear them apart © GETTY/AFP/File / Harry HowHe scored 13 points and pulled down 10 rebounds while handing out six assists.When he departed the game with 2:53 remaining, along with Kyle Kuzma, Larry Nance Jr. and Julius Randle they were cheered by fans — a turnaround from the boos heard during a loss to Charlotte on Friday.At 12-27 the Lakers remain at the bottom of the Western Conference. But they avoided matching the longest losing streak in franchise history.Walton, while encouraged, said he wasn’t expecting smooth sailing for his young players, but he said insisted their growing pains wouldn’t tear them apart.“The team’s been fine,” he said. “We’ve got guys and a group that are still figuring things out. It’s nothing new when young teams that are trying to get better go through hard times.”– Ageless Ginobili –Western Conference contenders San Antonio and Oklahoma City both endured defeats on the road.In Portland, CJ McCollum flashed to the basket and floated in the game-winner with 5.9 seconds left as the Trail Blazers edged the San Antonio Spurs 111-110.LaMarcus Aldridge had chance to answer for the Spurs, but his mid-range jump shot bounced off the back rim at the buzzer.The Spurs were missing four regulars, including Tony Parker and All-Star Kawhi Leonard, who has a partial tear of a muscle in his left shoulder, according to San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich.Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs chipped in 26 against the Trail Blazers to become at 40, the oldest player to score 20-plus points in back-to-back games © GETTY/AFP/File / RONALD MARTINEZPortland were also short-handed, as point guard Damian Lillard was a late scratch with a calf injury.The close contest featured four lead changes in the final 2:48.Aldridge led the Spurs with 30 points and 40-year-old Argentinian veteran Manu Ginobili chipped in 26 to become the oldest player to score 20-plus points in back-to-back games.In Phoenix, the Suns withstood a triple-double from NBA Most Valuable Player Russell Westbrook to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 114-100.Devin Booker led the Suns with 26 points and forward TJ Warren added 23.Phoenix also got a key contribution from 20-year-old Croatian Dragan Bender off the bench as he produced a career high of 20 points, including six three-pointers.Westbrook posted his 14th triple-double of the season with 26 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds but the Thunder never led after the first quarter.In Dallas, the New York Knicks thwarted a late surge by the Mavericks to triumph 100-96, snapping a three-game losing streak.Kristaps Porzingis led the Knicks with 29 points and Jarrett Jack’s 12 included a floater with 31.2 seconds left that broke a 94-94 tie and put the New York ahead for good.The Knicks had led by 13 with 4:49 left to play only for the Mavs to roar back, but New York held on to claim just their fourth road win of the season.“We weathered the storm,” Jack said. “We had some hiccups throughout it, but for the most part we weathered the storm.”0Shares0000(Visited 1 times, 1 visits today) 0Shares0000Lonzo Ball of the Los Angeles Lakers, was under scrutiny after his father’s latest remarks that coach Luke Walton had lost the confidence of his players © GETTY/AFP/File / Sean M. HaffeyLOS ANGELES, United States, Jan 8 – The Los Angeles Lakers snapped a nine-game NBA losing streak on Sunday with a 132-113 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.Brandon Ingram scored 20 points to lead the Lakers, who hadn’t won a game since a December 20 victory over the Houston Rockets.
1 Juventus have joined the race to sign Manchester City target Dani Alves.The Brazil wing-back will leave Barcelona as a free agent at the end of the season and City – along with the rest of the world’s biggest clubs – are interested.Manuel Pellegrini’s side would be considered a likely destination for defender as they have former Barcelona chiefs Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begiristai working behind the scenes at the Etihad.The fact Alves would not require a transfer fee would also be attractive for City as they do their best to abide by the financial fair play regulations.However the flying full-back would be in the market for wages in the region of around £5m-per-annum, which City and a number of other clubs might baulk at. Dani Alves in action for Barcelona 
0Shares0000Kapenguria Heroes star David Majak overpowers Ombek Red Devis players. Photo/GERALD ANDERSONKAKAMEGA, Kenya, Mar 24 – Backed by their loyal fans, Kapenguria Heroes booked a place in the Boys Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom final after coming down twice to knock out Ombek Red Devils 3-2 in post-match penalties in a scintillating semi final played at a well attended Bukhungu Stadium on Saturday.This is after the match ended to a 2-2 draw in regular time with Kapenguria Heroes star David Majak once again shinning after scoring all the goals for the West Pokot team that represents Rift Valley region. Ombek took the lead through Alex Abok on the half-hour mark before Majak, now with Kenyan Premier League side Kakamega Homeboyz levelled on the stroke of half time from a header.The second half saw Ben Ogot reclaim the lead for Ombek in the 65th minute but Majak cut short their hopes of winning after netting the equaliser in the 75th minuteKapenguria will now face favourites Gor Mahia Youth in the final on Sunday where the winner will pocket Sh1mn and earn a trip to London where they will train with the tournament’s brand Ambassador, Victor Wanyama at his Tottenham Hotspur backyard.0Shares0000(Visited 1 times, 1 visits today)
Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino believes Blues owner Roman Abramovich may not to be too far away from pulling the plug on Jose Mourinho’s second tenure in charge at Stamford Bridge.Mourinho and his players have endured an uncharacteristically disastrous start to the season, with the English champions languishing in 15th after losing five of their opening ten league games.The embattled Portuguese manager has faced numerous FA charges for his behaviour too, including his latest indictment following the 2-1 defeat to West Ham at the weekend, with talkSPORT presenter Dietmar Hamann suggesting the 52-year-old is ‘begging for the sack.’And Cascarino appeared to echo Hamann’s sentiment, while also claiming Abramovich’s mercilessness with his managers in the past points to a parting of ways.“If history has taught us anything, it’s that Roman has sacked people for a lot less,” Cascarino told Drivetime.“It’s a strange one because Abramovich is doing something he’s never done – he’s never supported a manager. If he ever felt that they were losing games he got rid of them, so this is a first.“He cannot like it. He cannot like seeing his football club and manager portrayed like this.”
1. Goalkeeper: Simon Mignolet (Liverpool) – click the arrow above, right, to see the combined XI based on current form and fitness – Asmir Begovic has been one of few players at Chelsea whose performances and commitment hasn’t been called into question. However, with the Blues leaking so many goals and Mignolet having kept four clean sheets, this decision was simple. 11 11 11 2. Right back: Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool) – Branislav Ivanovic was one of the first names to make it into last year’s Premier League team of the season; what a contrast this campaign has been for the Serb. Nathaniel Clyne has easily brushed Ivanovic aside to make our combined XI, despite having not yet hit top form for the Reds. 11 11 6. Centre midfield: Ramires (Chelsea) – As much as this position should be commanded by Cesc Fabregas or Nemanja Matic, the pair simply haven’t been performing to the standard expected to earn a place. Ramires has been limited in his appearances since the start of the campaign, yet has impressed in Chelsea’s last few games, with Jose Mourinho turning to the Brazilian to divert pressure away from Fabregas and Matic. 9. Attacking midfield: Philippe Coutinho (Liverpool) – On form, Cesc Fabregas, or even Oscar, may be the favoured option ahead of Coutinho. Right now, however, the Liverpool midfielder is the superior option in the No.10 role. 11 Chelsea host Liverpool on Saturday afternoon, and with just three points separating the sides, it’s anticipated to be a full-blooded encounter.Jose Mourinho has an excellent Premier League record over Liverpool, while Jurgen Klopp boasts the better of the head-to-head results with the Portuguese manager – so this is an incredibly challenging fixture to call.CHELSEA VS LIVERPOOL: FIVE KEY BATTLES THAT COULD PROVE CRUCIALAnd to increase excitement ahead of the 12.45pm kick off, we’ve put together a combined XI.This was no easy task given a number of big-name players from both sides are suffering for form and fitness – does Eden Hazard make it? Cesc Fabregas? Philippe Coutinho?To find out our selection, click the yellow arrow above, right. 11 11 11 11. Striker: Christian Benteke (Liverpool) – This was one of the toughest battles, with Diego Costa difficult to leave out. However, Benteke, despite his fitness concerns, has been the more threatening in front of goal. The question is, will he start against Chelsea? 10. Left wing: Willian (Chelsea) – In May, it would have been unfathomable to imagine PFA Player of the Year Eden Hazard missing out on a place to any other player in the Premier League. However, with the performances of the Belgian having been described by some as ‘pathetic’, he hasn’t earned a spot. Willian still has much to prove, with his defensive work poor, but he has been a rare spark for Chelsea in the final third. 11 5. Left back: Cesar Azplicueta (Chelsea) – Jose Mourinho has retained faith in Azpilicueta this season, with the left back one of few that hasn’t been dropped by the Portuguese manager. The Spaniard is far superior in his defensive capabilities than compatriot and Liverpool defender Alberto Moreno. 11 8. Right wing: James Milner (Liverpool) – Milner has settled into life quickly at Liverpool, becoming one of the first names on the Reds’ team sheet. While he favours a central role, as he proved at Manchester City, he is at his most influential in a wider midfield position – and Jurgen Klopp seems to have quickly taken this view. 4. Centre back: Mamadou Sakho (Liverpool) – Sakho has been excellent for Liverpool this season and is expected to only improve under new manager Jurgen Klopp. Skrtel has been a clear weak link at the back for the Reds, and Sakho is quickly outshining the performances of his defensive partner. 3. Centre back: Kurt Zouma (Chelsea) – With Gary Cahill, John Terry and Martin Skrtel to contend with, this was no simple choice. Zouma, however, has grasped his opportunity in Chelsea’s first-team with both hands, not shying away from the pressure in west London at present, and thoroughly deserves his place. 7. Centre midfield: Lucas Leiva (Liverpool) – While Emre Can often makes the headlines for his performances in the Liverpool midfield, Lucas’ influence must not be underestimated. The Brazilian is key to the Reds, with his ability to break up the play essential, and was perhaps undervalued by former manager Brendan Rodgers. 
AD Quality Auto 360p 720p 1080p Top articles1/5READ MORECoach Doc Rivers a “fan” from way back of Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson 2. USC (12-1) Points: 1,483. PR: 1. Outlook: Trojans bid farewell to at least one Heisman Trophy winner and maybe two. QB Matt Leinart is off to the NFL with John David Booty waiting in the wings. RB Reggie Bush could be the top pick if he comes out. RB LenDale White and WRs Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith are due back. Defense loses E Frostee Rucker and LB Collin Ashton, with LB Oscar Lua, S Darnell Bing and E Lawrence Jackson among those with eligibility left. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 2 Texas 41-38 in Rose Bowl. 3. Penn State (11-1) 1. Texas (13-0) Points: 1,550 (62 first-place votes). Previous ranking (PR): 2. Outlook: Key question for Longhorns is whether star QB Vince Young will stay for his senior year. Even without him, the Longhorns could be set up for another big season with lots of talent due to return, including RBs Ramonce Taylor, Jamaal Charles, Selvin Young and Henry Melton and WRs Billy Pittman and Limas Sweed. Defense loses T Rodrique Wright, LB Aaron Harris and DB Michael Huff, returns S Michael Griffin, LB Robert Killebrew and E Brian Robison. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 1 USC 41-38 in Rose Bowl. 
Points: 1,421. PR: 3. Outlook: Big Ten champ loses QB Michael Robinson along with All-America DE Tamba Hali, LB Tim Shaw, CB Alan Zemaitis and safeties Calvin Lowry and Chris Harrell. Returnees include QB Anthony Morelli; LBs Paul Posluszny, the Bednarik Award winner; and Dan Connor; TB Tony Hunt; WRs Derrick Williams and Deon Butler; and two-way standout Justin King. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 22 Florida State 26-23 in 3OT in FedEx Orange Bowl. 4. Ohio State (10-2) Points: 1,357. PR: 4. Outlook: Buckeyes will have some rebuilding to do on defense as top LBs A.J. Hawk, Bobby Carpenter and Anthony Schlegel depart along with DE Mike Kudla. DBs Donte Whitner and Ashton Youboty are due back. Among offensive players due to return are FLs Ted Ginn Jr. and Anthony Gonzalez, RBs Antonio Pittman and Maurice Wells and QBs Justin Zwick and Troy Smith. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 6 Notre Dame 34-20 in Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. 5. LSU (11-2) Points: 1,281. PR: 10. Outlook: After winning SEC West, Tigers lose standout DT Kyle Williams, OT Andrew Whitworth, return specialist Skyler Green, RBs Joseph Addai and Shyrone Carey, LB Cameron Vaughn, DE Melvin Oliver and DT Claude Wroten. QB JaMarcus Russell returns with RB Justin Vincent, WRs Dwayne Bowe, Early Doucet and Craig Davis, FS LaRon Landry and LB Ali Highsmith. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 9 Miami (Fla.) 40-3 in Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. 6. West Virginia (11-1) Points: 1,235. PR: 11. Outlook: Big East champ should be poised for another run at the BCS behind QBs Pat White and Adam Bednarik, RB Steve Slaton, FB Owen Schmitt, C Dan Mozes, WR Darius Reynaud, LBs Kevin McLee and Jay Henry and DL Keilen Dykes. Secondary will need retooling with departures of Mike Lorello, Jahmile Addae and Dee McCann. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 8 Georgia 38-35 in Nokia Sugar Bowl. 7. Virginia Tech (11-2) Points: 1,176. PR: 12. Outlook: After falling short of ACC title, Hokies will return QB Marcus Vick, TB Branden Ore, receivers David Clowney, Josh Morgan and Eddie Royal, rover Aaron Rouse, LBs Vince Hall and Xavier Adibi and DE Chris Ellis. All-America CB Jimmy Williams departs along with DE Darryl Tapp, TBs Cedric Humes and Mike Imoh, FS Justin Hamilton and LB James Anderson. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 16 Louisville 35-24 in Toyota Gator Bowl. 8. Alabama (10-2) Points: 1,066. PR: 13. Outlook: QB Brodie Croyle departs, and backup J.P. Wilson returns along with an experienced offensive cast, including RBs Kenneth Darby, Jimmy Johns and Glen Coffee and receivers D.J. Hall and Keith Brown. SE Tyrone Prothro’s health (broken leg) will be something to watch. Standout defense loses All-America LB DeMeco Ryans, LB Freddie Roach, E Mark Anderson and FS Roman Harper, returns CB Simeon Castille and LB Juwan Simpson. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 15 Texas Tech 13-10 in AT&T Cotton Bowl. 9. TCU (11-1) Points: 914. PR: 14. Outlook: After a championship first season in Mountain West, Horned Frogs lose QB Tye Gunn, who missed most of the season with a shoulder injury. But QB Jeff Ballard returns along with RBs Robert Merrill and Aaron Brown and WRs Cory Rodgers, Quentily Harmon, Donald Massey and Derek Moore. Defense loses CBs Quincy Butler and Drew Coleman, returns SS Marvin White, LB Robert Henson, DE Tommy Blake and DE Chase Ortiz. Bowl result: Beat Iowa State 27-24 in ev1.net Houston Bowl. 10. Georgia (10-3) Points: 900. PR: 8. Outlook: SEC champs lose All-America G Max Jean-Gilles, QB D.J. Shockley, SE Bryan McClendon and DBs Greg Blue and Tim Jennings. Returnees include QB Joe Tereshinski, TBs Thomas Brown and Danny Ware, WR Mohamed Massaquoi, DE Quentin Moses and K Brandon Coutu. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 11 West Virginia 38-35 in Nokia Sugar Bowl. 11. Notre Dame (9-3) Points: 866. PR: 6. Outlook: Irish could make a run for national honors if QB Brady Quinn, fourth in the Heisman voting, returns along with WR Jeff Samardzija and RB Darius Walker. WR Maurice Stovall departs. Defense loses LBs Brandon Hoyte and Corey Mays, but S Tom Zbikowski and DL Victor Abiamiri are due to return. Bowl result: Lost to No. 4 Ohio State 34-20 in Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. 12. Oregon (10-2) Points: 837. PR: 5. Outlook: Ducks bounced back for a big season but lose QB Kellen Clemens, RB Terrence Whitehead, WR Demetrius Williams and CBs Aaron Gipson and Justin Phinisee. Among those expected back are QBs Dennis Dixon and Brady Leaf, RB Jonathan Stewart, WR James Finley and rover Patrick Chung. Standout lineman Haloti Ngata could give defense a big lift if he opts to stay. Bowl result: Lost to Oklahoma 17-14 in Pacific Life Holiday Bowl. 13. UCLA (10-2) Points: 774. PR: 17. Outlook: Bruins figure to miss QB Drew Olson and hope standout TB Maurice Drew returns. Backup QB Ben Olson is back with WRs Joe Cowan and Marcus Everett, but standout TE Marcedes Lewis departs. Defense loses LB Spencer Havner and SS Jarrad Page. FS Dennis Keyes, DT Brigham Harwell and DE Justin Hickman are among those due to return. Bowl result: Beat Northwestern 50-38 in Vitalis Sun Bowl. 14. Auburn (9-3) Points: 760. PR: 7. Outlook: Tigers will have some holes to fill with departures of WRs Devin Aromashodu, Ben Obomanu and Anthony Mix, All-America OT Marcus McNeill, LB Travis Williams and DE Stanley McClover. Due back are QB Brandon Cox, RBs Kenny Irons, Brad Lester and Tre Smith and DE Marquies Gunn. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 20 Wisconsin 24-10 in Capital One Bowl. 15. Wisconsin (10-3) Points: 739. PR: 20. Outlook: There’s a new man in charge in Madison with Bret Bielema moving up to replace coach Barry Alvarez. Standout RB Brian Calhoun has a year left as do QB John Stocco and RB Booker Stanley. Also due back are DBs Jack Ikegwuonu, Roderick Rogers and Joe Stellmacher, LB Mark Zalewski and DL Nick Hayden. Badgers lose WRs Brandon Williams and Jonathan Orr and LB Dontez Sanders. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 7 Auburn 24-10 in Capital One Bowl. 16. Florida (9-3) Points: 718. PR: 18. Outlook: Gators aim for top of SEC in QB Chris Leak’s senior year. Backup Josh Portis has transferred. RBs DeShawn Wynn and Markus Manson are due back along with WR Jemalle Cornelius. Defense loses CB Vernell Brown, E Jeremy Mincey and S Jarvis Herring, returns LB Brandon Siler and S Reggie Nelson. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 25 Iowa 31-24 in Outback Bowl. 17. Boston College (9-3) Points: 584. PR: 19. Outlook: Eagles lose QB Quinton Porter, but Matt Ryan returns after seeing lots of action. RBs L.V. Whitworth and Andre Callender also due back, but Eagles lose WRs Will Blackmon and Larry Lester with Tony Gonzalez returning. All-America DE Mathias Kiwanuka departs. Standout LB Brian Toal returns with SS Jamie Silva. Last week: Beat Boise State 27-21 in MPC Computers Bowl. 18. Miami (Fla.) (9-3) Points: 558. PR: 9. Outlook: Hurricanes will try again to win their first ACC title behind returning QB Kyle Wright and a retooled coaching staff. Also due back are RBs Tyrone Moss and Charlie Jones, TE Greg Olsen, WR Ryan Moore, DBs Lovon Ponder, Brandon Merriweather and Kenny Phillips and LB Jon Beason. ‘Canes lose DB-KR Devin Hester, WR Sinorice Moss, DB Kelly Jennings and LBs Rocky McIntosh and Leon Williams. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 10 LSU 40-3 in Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl. 19. Texas Tech (9-3) Points: 422. PR: 15. Outlook: QB Cody Hodges is leaving, but backup Graham Harrell returns. Raiders lose RB Taurean Henderson, with RB Shannon Woods coming back, joined by receivers Robert Johnson, Jarrett Hicks, Joel Filani and Danny Amendola. LB John Saldi and DBs Vincent Meeks and Dwayne Slay depart. Defense returns LB Fletcher Session and E Keyunta Dawson. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 13 Alabama 13-10 in AT&T Cotton Bowl. 20. Louisville (9-3) Points: 342. PR: 16. Outlook: QB Brian Brohm’s recovery from torn ligament in right knee will be watched. He was Big East offensive player of year. Backup Hunter Cantwell also returns. RB Michael Bush, who led Big East in rushing, is due back as are WRs Mario Urrutia and Harry Douglas. Defense will need some retooling with departures of E Elvis Dumervil, the Nagurski Award winner; lineman Montavious Stanley; and LB Brandon Johnson. LB Nate Harris and CB Rod Council return. Bowl result: Lost to then-No. 12 Virginia Tech 35-24 in Toyota Gator Bowl. 21. Clemson (8-4) Points: 310. PR: 23. Outlook: QB Charlie Whitehurst departs Tigers, but backup Will Proctor is back. Also due to return are RBs James Davis and Reggie Merriweather, WRs Chansi Stuckey and Aaron Kelly, LBs Anthony Waters, Nick Watkins and Tramaine Billie, DE Gaines Adams, DT Rashaad Jackson, CB C.J. Gaddis and PK Jad Dean. Also leaving are WR Curtis Baham and DE Charles Bennett. Bowl result: Beat Colorado 19-10 in Champs Sports Bowl. 22. Oklahoma (8-4) Points: 274. PR: not ranked. Outlook: Sooners experienced down year but hope to bounce back behind returning RB Adrian Peterson and QB Rhett Bomar. RB Kejuan Jones departs along with FB J.D. Runnels, WR Travis Wilson, LB Clint Ingram and DL Dusty Dvoracek. Also due back are RB Jacob Gutierrez, QB-WR Paul Thompson, WR Malcolm Kelly, LBs Rufus Alexander and Zach Latimer and DB D.J. Wolfe. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 5 Oregon 17-14 in Pacific Life Holiday Bowl. 23. Florida State (8-5) Points: 209. PR: 22. Outlook: Seminoles redeemed themselves with ACC title after subpar year and are to have QBs Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee back along with RB Lorenzo Booker, WRs Chris Davis, De’Cody Fagg and Greg Carr, and LBs Buster Davis and Ernie Sims. Among those departing are CB Antonio Cromartie, RB Leon Washington, WR Willie Reid, LB A.J. Nicholson, FS Pat Watkins, rover Kyler Hall and DLs Brodrick Bunkley and Kamerion Wimbley. Bowl result: Lost to No. 3 Penn State 26-23 3OT in FedEx Orange Bowl. 24. Nebraska (8-4) Points: 109. PR: not ranked. Outlook: Cornhuskers will have to replace RB Cory Ross but return QB Zac Taylor and RBs Cody Glenn and Marlon Lucky, WRs Nate Swift, Terrence Nunn, Grant Mulkey and Frantz Hardy, LBs Corey McKeon and Bo Ruud and DEs Adam Carriker and Jay Moore. They lose SS Dan Bullocks and DT LeKevin Smith. Bowl result: Beat then-No. 21 Michigan 32-28 in Mastercard Alamo Bowl. 25. California (8-4) Points: 68. PR: not ranked. Outlook: Bears could be set up for run at Pac-10 honors with return of RBs Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett, QBs Steve Levy, Joe Ayoob and Nate Longshore (who missed most of the season), WRs Robert Jordan and Lavelle Hawkins, CB Daymeion Hughes, LB Desmond Bishop, DT Brandon Mebane and DE Nu’u Tafisi. They lose standout C Marvin Philip and DBs Donnie McCleskey and Harrison Smith. Bowl result: Beat Brigham Young 35-28 in Pioneer PureVision Las Vegas Bowl. Dropped out: No. 21 Michigan, No. 24 Georgia Tech, No. 25 Iowa. Others receiving votes: Tulsa (9-4) 52; Nevada (9-3) 35; Michigan (7-5) 32; Toledo (9-3) 18; Navy (8-4) 17; Iowa (7-5) 15; Boise State (9-4) 7; South Carolina (7-5) 7; Georgia Tech (7-5) 5; Arizona State (7-5) 2; Northwestern (7-5) 2; Rutgers (7-5) 2; North Carolina State (7-5) 1; Utah (7-5) 1; Virginia (7-5) 1. The USA TODAY Board of Coaches is made up of 62 head coaches at Division I-A institutions. All are members of the American Football Coaches Association. The board for the 2005 season: Barry Alvarez, Wisconsin; Chuck Amato, N.C. State, Gary Barnett, Colorado; Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech; Mike Bellotti, Oregon; Phil Bennett, SMU; Jack Bicknell, Louisiana Tech; Larry Blakeney, Troy; Bobby Bowden, Florida State; Tommy Bowden, Clemson; Jeff Bower, Southern Miss; Gregg Brandon, Bowling Green; Art Briles, Houston; Rich Brooks, Kentucky; Mack Brown, Texas; Watson Brown, UAB; John Bunting, North Carolina; Lloyd Carr, Michigan; Larry Coker, Miami (Fla.); Sylvester Croom, Mississippi State; Darrell Dickey, North Texas; Bill Doba, Washington State; Randy Edsall, Connecticut; Dennis Franchione, Texas A&M; Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee; Joe Glenn, Wyoming; Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State; Walt Harris, Stanford; Ken Hatfield, Rice; Dan Hawkins, Boise State; Pat Hill, Fresno State; Terry Hoeppner, Indiana; Brady Hoke, Ball State; Skip Holtz, East Carolina; Brian Kelly, Central Michigan; Rocky Long, New Mexico; Sonny Lubick, Colorado State; Dan McCarney, Iowa State; Andy McCollum, Middle Tennessee; Shane Montgomery, Miami (Ohio); Joe Novak, Northern Illinois; Houston Nutt, Arkansas; Tom O’Brien, Boston College; Gary Patterson, TCU; Bobby Petrino, Louisville; Mark Richt, Georgia; Rich Rodriguez, West Virginia; Greg Schiano, Rutgers; Howard Schnellenberger, Florida Atlantic; John L. Smith, Michigan State; Frank Solich, Ohio; Steve Spurrier, South Carolina; Bob Stoops, Oklahoma; Jeff Tedford, California; Joe Tiller, Purdue; Dick Tomey, San Jose State; Jim Tressel, Ohio State; Tommy Tuberville, Auburn; Bobby Wallace, Temple; Randy Walker, Northwestern; Charlie Weis, Notre Dame; Tyrone Willingham, Washington. 160Want local news?Sign up for the Localist and stay informed Something went wrong. Please try again.subscribeCongratulations! You’re all set!