Jackson’s back leads to backups

There’s no magic cure for Deonte Jackson’s aching back, Idaho’s football trainer insists. That doesn’t mean, however, the Vandals haven’t explored all options to help their star running back.

Aquatic therapy, intense massages, constant stretching the training staff’s methods have been wide-ranging … and time-consuming.

All the while, Idaho’s other tailbacks have shouldered a heavier-than-expected load. Corey White started last week versus Idaho State. Troy Vital has had meaningful carries. Princeton McCarty has shown hints of blossoming into an explosive backup.

Those three freshmen give coach Robb Akey options, but Jackson is clearly the No. 1 threat out of the backfield. In just 12 rushing attempts in a win over ISU, the elusive sophomore totaled 100 yards.

“Just think what he could have done if he would have carried the ball the whole game,” cornerback Isaac Butts said.

More than anything, Jackson is a known commodity, and his availability will be pivotal throughout the season for a program in need of consistent performers. The 5-foot-8, 191-pounder from Warren, Ark., is expected to play Saturday when the Vandals entertain Western Michigan (1-1) at the Kibbie Dome.

The kickoff for Idaho’s third of four non-conference contests is slated for 2 p.m.

The Vandals (1-1) enter the matchup knowing that Jackson’s tender back has to be “managed,” as Akey and trainer Barrie Steele worded it this week. Against the Bengals a week ago, he sat out the first few series, then went on to dominate the second quarter while Idaho built a three-touchdown lead.

Once halftime arrived, Jackson’s day was complete.

“I think I did a great job,” he said. “I warmed up very well before the game. (When I) got out there I was feeling great. … I left feeling really good and (I’m) real confident in the progress we’re making.”

Jackson’s injury came this summer when he was doing power cleans in the weight room. He strained his lower back muscle and his spinal alignment was thrown out of place.

His recovery hasn’t been speedy, but Steele has been pleased with his progress.

“He’s back able to practice,” he said. “He’s happy (and that’s) what we want to see from our (players).”

“I know he’s a tough son of a gun, he’s a warrior and he’ll play,” Akey said.

Right on track

He’s in just his second year, but already Butts has proven to be a key member of Idaho’s defense. He picked off two passes last week, helping him earn defensive player of the week honors in the Western Athletic Conference.

Yet the Pasco product is still waiting to get on scholarship, something he hopes will happen in the next few months.

“… It’s tough, but I can get through it,” he said. “Everything will be fine.”

Akey said Butts will be a scholarship player at some point. He didn’t give a timetable for when that will happen.

Bulldogs take big shot

The WAC is 0-4 against Top 25 opponents this fall. But the conference’s best chance to collect a marquee win might come this weekend, when No. 21 Fresno State plays host to No. 10 Wisconsin.

A win against the Big Ten school would give Fresno State the same sort of exposure that East Carolina has received after its rapid rise, Bulldogs coach Pat Hill said.

“Well, it’s a great opportunity for us once again,” Hill said. “And once again, I think that’s one of the great positives of playing the schedule we do.”

Notes

Nevada’s game at No. 6 Missouri has been shifted to a national broadcast on FSN after the Washington State-Baylor game was moved to Friday night because of Hurricane Ike. … The WAC is 7-7 this season against non-conference foes. Three of those wins have come versus Big Sky schools.