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UNLV running back Biaggio Ali Walsh cleared to play

When UNLV sophomore running back Biaggio Ali Walsh’s appeal to play this season was turned down by the NCAA before the beginning of training camp, there appeared little hope the decision would be overturned.

But Ali Walsh appealed the NCAA’s decision, and the organization on Tuesday granted him eligibility to play this season.

Ali Walsh, who went to Bishop Gorman High School and is Muhammad Ali’s grandson, transferred from California after last season.

He will compete in a loaded position. Junior Charles Williams and sophomore Chad Magyar have secured the top two spots.

“He’s in a battle,” coach Tony Sanchez said. “He’s vying for the top three or four spots. We’ll see how it all plays out.”

More concerning than the position battle, Sanchez said, is Ali Walsh’s health.

Ali Walsh has been coping with a sore back that probably will keep him out of practice until at least later in the week.

“(His return date) isn’t clear,” Sanchez said. “He’s had a lot of lower back pain.”

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Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com. Follow @markanderson65 on Twitter.

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