UNLV names Trotter starting tailback for Sept. 5 opener

Junior Channing Trotter will start at tailback when UNLV opens its football season Sept. 5 against Sacramento State at Sam Boyd Stadium.

The move was expected because Trotter has been operating with the first-team offense, and sophomore C.J. Cox has been slow to come back from a hamstring injury. Cox practiced some today, and more will be known whether he can play in the first game by Tuesday or Wednesday.

"I think we're going to have an ongoing deal where someone will start and (Chris) Brogdon will play, and in time C.J. will play (a lot)," coach Mike Sanford said. "It's like the corner situation where we're going to name starters, but that's fluid. That doesn't take away from Channing."

Also, defensive end Preston Brooks (knee) is expected back at practice Tuesday and will play barring any setbacks.