COUGARS

Washington State's Monday night football practice is over. The Cougars avoided the wet conditions and practiced in the bubble. We have some notes and some thoughts, so read on.
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• There were a few players back at practice and a few new ones out, including an unexpected one. Those who were back included defensive back Chima Nwachukwu, who seemed to be running at full speed, and linebacker Mike Ledgerwood, ditto. Both former starters were out with hamstring problems – Ledgerwood's neck had healed when he injured his hamstring – so their ability to move around unhindered means they should be ready to go Saturday. Cornerback Aire Justin (concussion) was back, albeit in a yellow jersey, a color also worn by guard B.J. Guerra (stinger suffered at ASU). ... Among the injured was receiver Daniel Blackledge, who was suffering from headaches and a possible concussion, so he was held out. Coach Paul Wulff talked about it a bit after practice, saying everyone wants kids safe, though it seems the tighter concussion protocols are claiming more and more players. ... Another player missing from practice was offensive lineman Andrew Roxas. Asked about it, Wulff said the junior was sick. ... Linebacker Sekope Kaufusi (shoulder) was held out and Wulff said it's sore, too sore to practice now. The hope is to give him some rest and he'll be ready to play Saturday. ... Running backs Chantz Staden (ribs), who cut off all his long, flowing hair, and Carl Winston (hamstring) didn't practice but Wulff thinks both are getting closer, with Winston probable for this week. ... Defensive back Anthony Carpenter (concussion) was also still out, while linebacker Eric Oertel (hamstring) was running on the side and could be back this week. ... During practice receiver Jared Karstetter came down on somebody's foot, rolling his right ankle, the severity of which is unknown. He had it elevated and iced the last part of the workout. And that's the extent of the practice report, held in full pads, which isn't all that usual for a Monday. ... California announced tonight that quarterback Kevin Riley is out for the rest of the year due to the knee injury he suffered at Oregon State.

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• That's all for tonight. See you in the morning. Until then ...

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