'Cuse Camp Clips ... with Curtis Brinkley

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Senior tailback Curtis Brinkley is back on the field after missing the final four games of the 2007 season due to a broken leg. The Philadelphia native led the Orange rushing with 371 yards on 111 carries last year. He has also returned kicks for the Orange and ranks 10th in the record books 38 kick returns and 11th with 802 kick return yards. Brinkley and sophomores Delone Carter and Doug Hogue are locked in a battle to be Syracuse's primary ball-carrier. The trio also has competition from a group of freshmen include Antwon Bailey, Averin Collier and Jerry Harden. Learn more about Brinkley in this edition of 'Cuse Camp Clips below.

"We're gifted at that position," said head coach Greg Robinson of the tailback group. "I believe that. Each of the three experienced players have made their presence felt. The young guys have made their presence felt, too. I just talked to that group just a minute ago and told all of them I have to cut this down a little bit, it's that time. I don't want anyone to feel slighted. I'll tell you, whoever gets up there and goes has been pretty darn impressive. They've done a good job of learning and their blocking has improved. This will be interesting the next 10 days. I like recruiting running backs, because you get some good athletes no matter what. We'll have to try and utilize these guys."

The Orange has completed 16 days of preseason camp and has 11 remaining until the 2008 season begins at Northwestern (August 30, 12:00 p.m., ESPN2).

Tickets for the 2008 season are available online and at the Carrier Dome Box Office (1-888-DOMETIX). Fans who have ordered 2008 season tickets should watch their mailboxes as tickets have been mailed.

'Cuse Camp Clips ... with Curtis Brinkley

What was your ‘Welcome to college football moment?

Actually, it was at practice. I got hit by Anthony Smith, James Wyche and Kelvin Smith. It was one of the hardest hits I've ever experienced and it happened all at the same time.

How great does it feel to be back and able to compete this year?

It feels great, especially when you're feeling how I'm feeling right now. I'm feeling great, 110%, and I'm ready right now.

With just more than one week left, what does the team need to work on the most to prepare for Northwestern?

I think we're doing a great job of preparing. I just feel like we're making a step forward every day.

What improvements have you noticed in this year's camp?

This is easily the hardest camp I've been in at Syracuse. It's just so much more competitive with the offensive line, the defensive line, the running backs, the linebackers, the receivers, the defensive backs, I could go on and on. It even shows in the kicking game. It's just really competitive.

What goes through your mind when you see a huge hole in the line open up?

(Smiles) Man, touchdown…and I look forward to seeing a lot of huge holes in the line this year.

What Syracuse University class has taught you the most?

The two classes I've learned the most from were probably my African-American studies class and my geology class.

Five years after graduating from Syracuse I will be …

Hopefully finishing up in the NFL, but after that, I see myself as a communicator. I see myself offering my words at halftime somewhere doing some broadcasting.

Advice to first-year teammates?

Just learn. If you see opportunity, go after it. If you don't see much room for it, just sit back and wait your turn and try and get as much information and take as many mental reps as you can.

Favorite Professional sports team?
Philadelphia Eagles

Favorite Professional athlete?

Brian Westbrook

Other than football, what sport do you think you could dominate at Syracuse?

(laughing) Dominate here? Basketball.

What's your favorite spot to hang out at on campus?

Favorite spot has to be Manley.

Are you really messy or are you a clean freak?

I'm a neat dude.

What's your favorite routine in the weight room?

Working on my legs.

What's the best meal served in the cafeteria at Manley?