As always, Ralph Friedgen got on the phone today to tell the reporting faithful about how his team (2-8, 1-5 ACC) is doing after yet another loss, this time at the hands of Virginia Tech on Saturday. Here’s a quick rundown of some injury updates:
- Quarterback Chris Turner didn’t play after being listed as doubtful. Friedgen isn’t sure if he’ll get him back next weekend at Florida State, but seemed pretty confident Turner would be able to play for Senior Day the following week, at home vs. Boston College.
- Running back Da’Rel Scott should be good to go this weekend, but Friedgen said, “We’ve just got to see how well he can hold onto the ball and catch the ball and those things.” I wouldn’t hold out for a 20-carry performance from Scott this weekend.
- Safety Kenny Tate is almost certainly out for the season, as initially reported. He’s got a high ankle sprain, though Friedgen said doctors initially thought it might be a break. Tate should be good to go by winter workouts, though. Antwine Perez is now the Terps’ third safety, and Eric Franklin becomes the fourth option. Should a fifth be necessary, look to either Austin Walker, the son of Redskins legend Doc Walker, or walk-on Mike Salvatico
- Punter Travis Baltz is going under the knife on Thursday for a broken finger on his right hand. They’ve got to put a pin in it, according to Friedgen. He’s also out for the rest of the season, if that wasn’t implied. Kicker Nick Ferrara will resume punting duties.
- Wide receiver Ronnie Tyler played five or six snaps yesterday, limited by an AC joint sprain. Tyler may be back to full strength by next week.
- Linebacker Demetrius Hartsfield split time with Ben Pooler at the WILL against Virginia Tech, despite playing with a cast. Friedgen was encouraged by his play.
On another note, Friedgen has still not ruled out using true freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien in the season’s final two games, assuming Turner can’t go.
ajoseph@umdbk.com