Therien will miss opener

The University of Idaho, already more than four-touchdown underdogs to Boise State next Saturday, will be without one of its top players in the season opener.

Sophomore left tackle Hank Therien, Idaho’s lone preseason first-team All-Sun Belt selection, has been suspended for the game for an undisclosed violation of team rules. The 6-foot-7, 320-pound Therien started the final 10 games at left tackle last season.

Coaches have been aware of Therien’s violation for months, coach Nick Holt said. Asked if Therien’s suspension would extend past the BSU game, Holt said, “I hope not.”

Without Therien, Ryan Waage and Tony Kiel figure to take on enhanced roles on the left side of the line. Waage, currently slowed by an ankle injury, is a junior. Kiel is a senior who played in 12 games as a reserve last season.

Senior nose guard Michael Togafau is expected to play despite a shoulder sublexation. Senior James Coley likely will start. Lake City High product Jeff Edwards appears to be the starter at defensive tackle, though several players will see time at the position.

Sophomore tight end Luke Smith-Anderson (broken bone) has returned to practice with a cast and protective padding on his right hand. Smith-Anderson, a Lake City High graduate, didn’t participate in Saturday’s scrimmage but he hopes to play next week, possibly without a cast.

It appears two freshmen will start in the secondary. At strong safety, true freshman Dan Dykes has edged out Brandon Mascorro, who has been slowed by a sore hamstring. Redshirt freshman cornerback Eric McMillan is working with the first team ahead of senior Chris Nathan, who started four games last season.