Nov. 16, 2005

LAS VEGAS - UNLV head coach Mike Sanford announced that Shane Steichen is expected to start the team's season-finale vs. Colorado State on Saturday after the junior quarterback was finally cleared by doctors on Wednesday to return to full contact.

Steichen started the first four games of the season for the Rebels before breaking the ring finger on his left (and non-throwing) hand in the first quarter at Utah State on Sept. 24. Steichen finished the game vs. the Aggies but underwent hand surgery later that week and junior-college transfer Jarrod Jackson has played the last six games.

"Getting Shane back injects a little bit of enthusiasm into the team," Sanford said. "He is a fresh guy that has been out for a while and it's good to have him back. Jarrod Jackson has done a very good job in a very difficult situation but Shane's going to get an opportunity and the fact that he is a little more of a downfield thrower is a plus."

A native of El Dorado Hills, Calif., Steichen ranked 29th in the nation in total offense when he was injured. He has passed for 800 yards and seven touchdowns to go with four interceptions. Also a running threat, Steichen rushed for 244 yards and two scores on just 47 attempts while Jackson is at minus-95 yards rushing on 61 carries while throwing for 1,321 yards and six TDs with 12 interceptions.

"It's been a real tough time sitting out and watching my team out there," said Steichen, who is wearing a protective mitt on his repaired hand. "I wanted to be out there so bad helping them and I am pretty excited to get back on the football field."

The game is set for 1 p.m. PT at Sam Boyd Stadium. Tickets are available by calling 739-FANS or logging on to www.unlvtickets.com.