Cougar sharp this time

Sometimes a couple days off can get a team out of its comfort zone. At least that was Bill Doba’s thought process after a lackluster practice on Tuesday in Pullman. Wednesday’s practice was a different matter, though. With the injury list pared a little, the Cougars had a more productive session in Doba’s view.

“Mead’s Andy Mattingly returned to practice after more than a week on the sidelines with an ankle sprain and participated in all drills. Also returning from extended injury-caused absences were highly touted junior college safety Terry Mixon and backup kicker Loren Langley.

“Husain Abdullah continued his string of practices with an interception, grabbing his seventh of the fall during a scrimmage. The senior safety returned the interception for a score.

“Washington State returns to practice today at 2:30 p.m. The early time is necessary because WSU is holding its annual fall sports banquet in Spokane at 5 p.m. and Doba will be in attendance.

Badgers have their QB

Tyler Donovan will begin the season as the starting quarterback for No. 7 Wisconsin.

With 10 days left until Wisconsin’s Sept. 1 season opener against Washington State, coach Bret Bielema listed Donovan, a fifth-year senior, ahead of junior Allan Evridge on the updated depth chart.

Donovan led the Badgers to two wins in relief of injured starter John Stocco last year.