UC's Kiel practices, but will he play?
Tom Groeschen, tgroeschen@enquirer.com 6:49 p.m. EDT October 8, 2014
Gunner Kiel remains questionable to play Saturday.(Photo: The Enquirer/Gary Landers)
Gunner Kiel and his fellow University of Cincinnati quarterbacks practiced Wednesday in their familiar yellow, "Don't hit me," quarterback jerseys. In Kiel's case, such standard football policy was especially needed.
Kiel (bruised ribs) threw some passes and did some drills but was limited. UC coach Tommy Tuberville lists usual starter Kiel questionable for the Bearcats' game Saturday at the University of Miami (Florida).
"Gunner did a throw a little bit today but he's still real sore," Tuberville said. "He couldn't take a lick right now, and that's what I'm concerned about. You might be able to get your arm up and throw the ball but if you can't protect yourself, there's no use in playing."
Backup quarterbacks Munchie Legaux and Jarred Evans have taken most of the reps in practice this week.
"I haven't decided who's going to start, between Jarred and Munchie," Tuberville said. "More than likely it will be one of them (starting)."
UC players were not available to comment Wednesday. When there is a Saturday game, UC prohibits player interviews between Wednesday-Friday.
Kiel was hurt on the final play of the first half in a 41-14 loss to Memphis last Saturday.
Tuberville wants another look Thursday before making any quarterback decisions.
"Probably at this time tomorrow, we'll have a better idea if (Kiel) can play at all," Tuberville said. "If he doesn't take at least 25 percent of the snaps (Thursday), he won't even get in the game."
Kiel threw mostly short passes Wednesday in practice.
"He can't put anything on it. He just can't get any zip on the ball," Tuberville said. "He's better than what he was, that's the main thing."
Kiel will travel with the team to Miami, Tuberville said.
"He'll go on the trip, just to help all the other quarterbacks out," Tuberville said. "The jury's still out on whether he plays."
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UC at Miami (Fla.)
Saturday at Sun Life Stadium, noon
TV:
Fox Sports Ohio (ACC Regional Sports Network)
Records: UC 2-2, Miami 3-3
http://www.cincinnati.com/story/ucathlet.../16940015/