Fans replace items Memphis player lost in fire

By foxsports
Published

Fans have helped replace a Memphis running back's clothes and furniture after they were destroyed by a fire while he was out of town for the season's final game.

University officials announced Thursday fans' donations had reached the level allowed by the NCAA to help senior Brandon Hayes.

Hayes was with the Tigers at Connecticut where they lost 45-10 last week at the time fire heavily damaged his rental home in Memphis. The NCAA approved only donations to replace what Hayes lost.

A university spokesman says the landlord will either have the house repaired or a new rental available when Hayes returns from the holidays in Chicago.

The former walk-on has led the Tigers in rushing the past two seasons and is petitioning for a sixth season due to injuries.