Backup RBS Get Extra Look

If the New Mexico Lobos had a football game today, they likely would be without their No. 1 and No. 2 running backs.

But there’s no game today, which means Kasey Carrier’s and Demarcus Rogers’ temporary absence merely provides more practice repetitions for their backups.

Carrier, the Lobos’ likely starter at running back, suffered a hamstring injury during Thursday’s practice in Ruidoso. Rogers, the likely No. 2, has been out for a week with the same problem.

Lobos coach Bob Davie said via cell phone that Carrier’s injury doesn’t appear to be as serious as Rogers’. Both are expected back in plenty of time for UNM’s Sept. 1 season opener against Southern.

In the meantime, their absence on the practice field gives the Lobos’ other running backs — redshirt freshman Jhurell Pressley, junior Emmanuel Fatokun, walk-on true freshman David Anaya — more opportunities.

Elsewhere, senior wide receiver Ty Kirk, who’d been out for a week with a foot injury, returned to practice Friday on a limited basis.

Davie said linebackers Tevin Newman and A.J. Butler were to be examined today and might get clearance to play. Newman has recovered from a broken ankle suffered in the spring, but he has had Achilles tendon problems. Butler broke his leg during the summer.

Junior linebacker Dallas Bollema (hamstring), a returning starter, has missed the past several practices.

The Lobos will practice today — their 10th of the preseason — then take Sunday off. They’ll stay in Ruidoso until Friday, then are scheduled to scrimmage on UNM’s practice fields Aug. 18.