Posted by ESPN.com's Adam Rittenberg
The Sam McGuffie saga took another twist Thursday night as the Michigan freshman running back was a no-show at the team's football banquet. McGuffie's absence added to speculation that he will transfer from the program.
Head coach Rich Rodriguez declined to discuss personnel issues or potential staff changes when he met with reporters before the banquet. Rodriguez said last week that McGuffie, who briefly left the team to attend a family funeral before the Ohio State game, was on track to return for his sophomore season. McGuffie ranked second on the team in rushing with 486 yards and three touchdowns.
Other absences at the banquet included tight end Carson Butler and running back Avery Horn.
Adam Rittenberg joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four years at the Arlington Heights (Ill.) Daily Herald, where he covered sports at Notre Dame, Northwestern, DePaul and several other colleges. He lives in Chicago.
