Ohio State could be without its Heisman-candidate tailback, Chris “Beanie” Wells, this week against Ohio, leaving doubt as to who will be in the backfield for the Buckeyes’ monumental early season game against USC in a week and a half.
Buckeyes head coach Jim Tressel said Wells was “doubtful” for Saturday’s home game and a running back by committee could be employed if Wells is sidelined with a foot injury.
“I saw him in the training room earlier this morning and he said he feels really, really good,” Tressel said. “If the game were today, he probably wouldn’t go, but I guess we’ll have to go day-by-day.”
Wells hurt his foot in the third quarter of the Buckeyes’ opening game against Youngstown State. If he is able to practice during the week, he could see some playing time against the Bobcats.
If Wells can’t go, senior Maurice Wells, who rushed for 367 yards last year, could see the bulk of the carries. Tressel said the approach to Saturday’s game won’t waver with Wells’ injury.
“We’re not going to change (the game plan) conceptually, just different people doing it,” Tressel said.
Chris Wells’ mother, Paulette, told The Columbus Dispatch on Wednesday that her son has a toe injury but plans to play.
Upset watch
Of the four matches between teams from the Big Ten and Mid-American Conference scheduled for Saturday, Minnesota undoubtedly has the biggest challenge.
Last week’s BCS conference killer, Bowling Green, will host the Golden Gophers in a rematch of last year’s overtime thriller in Minnesota.
Bowling Green knocked off preseason No. 25 Pittsburgh last week and is looking to repeat last year’s success.
Minnesota head coach Tim Brewster praised sixth-year Bowling Green head coach Gregg Brandon for his work with the Falcons.
“He’s really done a great job recruiting players who fit his system,” Brewster said.
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