Pitt’s most talented offensive lineman, Lucas Nix, has been trying to get back onto the field for weeks after his injury. After missing the past few weeks, head coach Todd Graham, thinks this could be the week he returns:
“We anticipate that Lucas will play,” Graham said. “I don’t want to tell you he is definitely going to and then he doesn’t, and you guys (reporters) think I’m not telling you the truth.”
A ligament that provides support for his left kneecap was stretched, and Nix has been careful not to re-injure it during his rehabilitation.
“Obviously, he has the best chance to play this week; he has had the most time to get ready,” said Graham, noting that Pitt didn’t play last week. “I anticipate and expect him to be playing.”
The thing with Nix is that he obviously has an NFL career to consider. Nix may be healthy enough to play and go out there in a limited fashion, but he needs to be careful not to further injure himself. But playing in the Backyard Brawl and with Pitt’s slim BCS hopes on the line, this could be the week we finally see Nix suit back up.
For more on Pitt football, check out SB Nation blog Cardiac Hill.