Riley updates injuries ahead of Ohio State game

By Tommy Rezac

Nebraska head football coach Mike Riley updated the injury status on a number of players ahead of Saturday night’s showdown against No. 9 Ohio State.

Junior running back Mikale Wilbon will be back Saturday after missing the Wisconsin game last week. Tre Bryant has been ruled out for the fifth straight game. Riley says Bryant “might have a chance” to come back to full speed during the bye week next week.

Wilbon will play, split time with Ozigo. Bryant out. Marcus Newby has a cast, but will play. Knevel back to questionable. Reed out. #Huskers

— Tommy Rezac (@Tommy_KLIN) October 12, 2017

Senior right tackle David Knevel, who was “probable” Monday, is back to “questionable” after dealing with more ankle injuries in Thursday’s workout. Riley says they’ll evaluate him more on Friday. Tryue freshman Brendan Jaimes will start again if Knevel can’t go.

Elsewhere along the offensive line, junior center Cole Conrad has been moved from his usual starting center spot to more of a backup center or guard to provide depth at several positions. Riley described Conrad as “Mr. Versatile.”

Junior safety Antonio Reed, who’s dealing with a knee injury, has been ruled out.

Bryan Reimers doubtful with ankle. Aaron Williams questionable. Safety depth getting thin. Dismuke likely to play more. #Huskers

— Tommy Rezac (@Tommy_KLIN) October 12, 2017

Elsewhere, junior receiver Bryan Reimers, who has only one catch this season, is “doubtful” after spraining his ankle on Wednesday.

Junior safety Aaron Williams is questionable with a soft tissue injury in his neck, and Riley say’s he’ll be evaluated more on Friday.

Week of Prep

With Nebraska listed as a heavy underdog against Ohio State, Riley has been pleased with the response and the work ethic throughout the week after a tough 38-17 loss to the Badgers last week.

“I think it’s been really good,” Riley said. “I think they’ve remained consistent in how they prepare and I think there’s been good examples on this team.”

You can contact Tommy at 402-840-5226, or you can follow him on Twitter @Tommy_KLIN.