Report: Tennessee dismisses star tailback

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 2 (UPI) -- University of Tennessee tailback LaMarcus Coker Friday was dismissed from the team after a rules violation.

The Knoxville Journal Sentinel reported it was told by a source the 5-foot-11, 195-pound sophomore from Antioch, Tenn., failed his fourth drug test, which called for immediate dismissal under the athletic department’s drug policy.

"As I’ve had a chance to further investigate and talk to others close to the situation, I have decided to dismiss LaMarcus from the team because he did not do what was asked of him," Coach Phillip Fulmer said in a statement. "My first obligation is to the growth of the young men with whom I'm entrusted."

In eight games this season, Coker scored one touchdown after 45 carries for 169 yards.

Last season, he scored five times on 108 carries for 696 yards, and once on 13 receptions for 168 yards.

The newspaper also reported he was suspended for several practices last December before the Vols lost to Penn State at the Outback Bowl.