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ALBANY GA -- The Albany State football team is working with plenty of options on offense in 2012. Fittingly, that option wrinkle has been added to the ASU playbook.

With more running quarterbacks, the Golden Rams are installing an option run game. With the speed of tailback Nathan Hoyte and receiver Orion Ponder, ASU plans to keep the ball on the ground more often this year.

But the men up front blocking always dictate a plan's success.

“It still boils back to the offensive line what they're doing and how they carry us...how far we go. It's going to be exciting a lot of people going to want the ball, the backs going to want the ball, the receivers going to want the ball, but the line is going to have a whole lot to say about that,” ASU Head Coach Mike White said.

Coach White had something to say about the quarterback competition on Saturday. He did not name a starter, but says it's a two-man race at the position. Transfer quarterback Keenan Grissett practiced with the first team offense.

RB Hess Returns to Golden Rams

Albany State running back Kareem Hess has had a long road to recovery, but the senior wants everyone to know he's back for the blue and gold.

Hess has been sidelined two straight seasons due to two straight ACL injuries. Now, after a full year of recovery, the Tift County product is making cuts without any hint of hesitation.

Hess provides even more depth at a loaded running back position. The senior is making the most out of his new opportunity, and still has some fire left for Albany State

“I want people to know that I play for Albany State. That I have played here and trying to do some things, so I can be remembered here,” Hess said.

“It doesn't surprise any of us, what he's been able to accomplish this offseason. I’m just looking forward to him having a good year. We haven't seen him in a few years, so I think a lot of people are looking forward to seeing him run the way we know Hess to run,” Coach White said.

Hess will have some work to do moving up the depth chart. Running back Nathan Hoyte returns to the Golden Rams after rushing for 774 yards in 2011.