RUSTON - Louisiana Tech head coach Derek Dooley announced Friday that junior college running back Zach Booker has joined the Bulldogs team.

Booker comes to Tech from Blinn Junior College in Texas where he lettered last year for coach Brad Franchionne. He rushed for over 600 yards and seven touchdowns.

The 21-year-old played his prep football at Spring High School in Texas where he earned first team all-district accolades and second team all-state honors. He rushed for more than 1,400 yards and 19 touchdowns as a senior.

Dooley also announced that junior running back William Griffin has asked for and been granted his release and will transfer to Northwestern State.

Griffin lettered the past two years for the Bulldogs, seeing limited playing time behind a stable of Bulldog running backs. He was currently fourth on the Tech depth chart behind Patrick Jackson, Daniel Porter and Myke Compton.

"William is a junior and his prospects for substantial playing time this year were limited," Dooley said. "While we never want anyone to leave our program, we wish William the best as he finishes his career at Northwestern State."

Griffin saw most of his action last season on the Tech special teams units. He also rushed 43 times for 190 yards and no scores.

Dooley also said that redshirt freshman Allen Gilbert has been moved back to running back after being moved to cornerback during the last week of practice.

The Bulldog conducted two practices on Friday and will return to the practice field on Saturday afternoon. Tech's next intra-squad scrimmage is set for Sunday.

Tech continues preparation for its Aug. 30 nationally televised season opener against Mississippi State. Tech officials continue to urge fans to purchase their season tickets by calling 257-3631 or logging onto www.latechsports.com.