Doug Marrone began his Syracuse media day news conference with some good news: Senior tailback Delone Carter has been reinstated to the school, and therefore is a member of the team again.

Carter was kicked out of school in April after being arrested for allegedly punching a fellow student. He hasn't lived on campus since, and Marrone said Carter would likely arrive back to Syracuse on Tuesday, though he wasn't sure when he would suit up and practice. Marrone said part of it would depend on what kind of shape Carter was in, but anyone who remembers Carter's bulging biceps would have a hard time picturing the senior being out of shape.

The 1,000-yard rusher from last season will be able to play in the opener at Akron. Marrone said Carter has served all of his punishment, which included some internal discipline immediately after the arrest.

Carter's return couldn't come soon enough for Syracuse. Third-string tailback Averin Collier did not report and for the moment looks like he'll be ineligible this season. That left just Antwon Bailey as the lone experienced ball carrier, and the Orange didn't want to open the season on the road with that kind of backfield situation.