Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Purdue: Injury Report

Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Ahead of Saturday afternoon’s kickoff, here’s a look at the injury report for the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Purdue Boilermakers.

Minnesota

S Damarius Travis (hamstring)-Out
CB Briean Boddy-Calhoun (knee)-Out
QB Mitch Leidner (undislosed)-Probable
CB/PR Craig James (broken leg)-Out
OG Jon Christenson (knee)-Probable
LB Cody Poock (ribs)-Probable
OG Joe Bjorklund (knee)-Questionable
OT Ben Lauer (hand/knee)-Questionable
OT Jonah Pirsig (shoulder)-Probable
WR Jeff Jones (undisclosed)-Out

Overview

Travis, Boddy-Calhoun and James are all likely out for Saturday, as the Minnesota secondary continues to be hampered by injuries. Travis apparently appeared to be close to full strength at Wednesday’s practice, but head coach Jerry Kill downplayed any potential progress.

Kill suggested that Leidner’s undisclosed ailment is affecting his ability to run. At this point the junior signal caller should play on Saturday, and he’ll probably start, but it’s fair to assume true freshman Demry Croft will see more action than he did against Northwestern last week.

James had been the Golden Gophers’ primary punt returner, and wide receiver K.J. Maye looks likely to take over those duties.

Christenson has missed the last three games, but he could return against Purdue. Kill has suggested a playing time split at left guard with Bjorklund, who has an ongoing knee issue of his own and has been limited in practice in recent weeks.

Poock has been dealing with a rib issue in recent weeks, but barring an unforeseen setback he should play against Purdue.

Purdue

QB Austin Appleby (thigh)-Questionable
LB Jimmy Herman (hamstring)-Probable
WR Domonique Young (concussion)-Probable

Overview

Appleby is dealing with a deep thigh bruise, and he may not be available as Purdue’s No. 2 quarterback on Saturday.

Herman and Young reportedly practiced on Tuesday, and both guys seem on track to play against Minnesota.

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