Using former players in practice is latest way Alabama stays ahead of curve

— -- Ohio State coach Urban Meyer appeared to be incredulous.

?He cocked his head to the side and asked a reporter to repeat her question about whether he'd have former players come back to practice with the team.

"The NCAA says it's OK, for instance, for Alabama to use Trent Richardson ... as a scout-team player," the reporter said.

"In practice?" Meyer said, again cocking his head in disbelief.

"Yes."

"I did not know that." he said, pausing to consider it further. "Like, padded practice? He's running plays? In padded practice? NFL players?"

Someone in the media scrum threw out former Ohio State stars Orlando Pace and Joey Galloway as options, laughing at the thought. But Meyer crossed his arms and thought about it.

Then he pulled a cellphone out of his pocket.

"I'll be right back," he said, acting as if he was ducking away to call in reinforcements.

Whether Meyer was actually aware of the rule or just playing dumb is anyone's guess. He did seem to enjoy the moment.

"I apologize, I did not know that," he told the reporter. "But it's got me thinking."