He's well aware of the inferences, subtle or otherwise.
"I wouldn't say [it has been] frustrating, but I really want to get back out there and show people that I'm capable of going through a complete season without . . . anything [bad happening]," Pierce said yesterday morning after the Owls began spring practice under their new coach, former Florida offensive coordinator Steve Addazio. "Just being able to be dependable, and count on me for 14 games.
"Honestly, people talk about my demeanor when I do get hurt. It's just like, 'The world's over. Oh man, not again. I've got to deal with this.' I'm starting to get a better attitude about it. I'm noticing when you do have a better attitude, you will mentally heal faster.
"Most of the time, I keep it in. But if somebody says something to me about it, that's when it usually blows up and I turn into a bigger nut."
As long as he's going off on the field, it's a good thing. Especially now that Matt Brown, who has been a capable backup despite being way smaller in stature, has been suspended for unspecified reasons. When or if he'll return, only Addazio knows for sure and he's not really indicating. At least not for public consumption.
This much is clear: If the Owls want to win their first Mid-American Conference title and/or their first bowl game in more than 3 decades, their chances are a lot better if Pierce is at least at something approaching full strength.
"Obviously, his durability [is the question]," Addazio said. "He's had a great offseason. Out here, he jumps out at you on the field. He's got tremendous ability. And part of our plan to win is to run the football. It's a huge component for us. Obviously, he gives us the ability to do that."
