Ohio State’s not the only team dealing with injury issues on the defensive side of the ball heading into this week’s games. In fact, it’s the team that replaced the Buckeyes at the top of the rankings that may be even more depleted defensively.
According to Ken Goe of The Oregonian, the Ducks appear likely to be sans three starters on defense when they take the field against UCLA Thursday in Eugene.
The defensive trio that look to be in danger of missing the game, per the paper, are defensive tackle Zac Clark (groin), defensive end Terrell Turner (toe) and cornerback Anthony Gildon (ankle). With that said, head coach Chip Kelly isn’t prepared to rule anyone in or out 48 hours or so before kickoff.
“I haven’t ruled anyone for Thursday,” Kelly said. “We don’t do that today. You’ll have to wait until the day before the game like we’ve done every game since we’ve been here.”
In addition to the injury question marks on defense, at also appears likely backup running back Kenjon Barner will also be unavailable. Barner suffered a concussion as a result of a violent collision in the Ducks’ Oct. 9 win against Washington State.
This is what sucks about the BCS computer rankings, they do not give any consideration to injuries.