BYU's intended player at that position, Matt Johnson, did not qualify academically, coach Bronco Mendenhall said after Wednesday's practice. Johnson earned a scholarship out of Southern California's Citrus College for the sole purpose of snapping the football in kicking and punt situations.

BYU lost a game in overtime last season to Texas Christian on a botched extra-point attempt. Mendenhall said BYU will begin a national search in hopes of brining in a snapper for this season.

"We offered a scholarship to a deep snapper recognizing an immediate and necessary need," he said. "I'm very disappointed and, to some extent, frustrated that a young man didn't do what he needed to do to uphold his commitment to our program by getting his work done."

For now, defensive lineman Brett Denney and reserve quarterback Sam Doman would handle the duties. Linebacker Bryan Kehl is another possibility.

Projected starting linebacker Markell Staffieri suffered a leg injury during Wednesday's practice and was helped into the trainer's room. Mendenhall said he didn't know the extent of the injury.