Michigan football transfers Sam McGuffie, Toney Clemons in line for playing time

McGuffie ran for 486 yards and three touchdowns as a part-time starter for Michigan two years ago, but health and family reasons necessitated a transfer closer to his Texas home.

Rice returns its top two running backs from a season ago, sophomore Charles Ross and junior Tyler Smith, but Bailiff said McGuffie will push for playing time when spring practice opens today.

Michigan begins spring practice March 16.

"You look at Sam, he can play slot, running back," Bailiff said. "He’s a very talented kid."

McGuffie sat out last year as a transfer, but Bailiff said his skills were apparent playing on Rice's scout team.

"Every now and then to keep him from going crazy we’d let him go run a play," Bailiff said. "He’s a good kid."

Another recent Michigan transfer, wide receiver Toney Clemons, should see immediate playing time at Colorado after sitting out last season.

Clemons told The Denver Post he'll be a deep threat for the Buffaloes this year, a role he couldn't envision in Michigan's offense.

"It didn't fit my abilities, what I do best," Clemons told the paper. "In (Michigan coach Rich) Rodriguez's spread, the main thing is to get the ball to scatback-type receivers with short passes in the slot. I'm a guy that likes to stretch the field. Not a lot of balls are going to go to the outside guys. I knew I had to either change and become a slot guy or get out."

Dave Birkett covers University of Michigan football for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached by phone at 734-623-2552 or by e-mail at davidbirkett@annarbor.com. Follow him on Twitter @davebirkett.