Eaves, Gebhart questionable against Minnesota

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Photo by David Samson/Forum communications Co. Ryan Smith picks his way through defenders on a punt return Saturday during the North Dakota State University Bison football scrimmage at Dakotah Field.

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FARGO — North Dakota State has two question marks for the University of Minnesota game on Saturday, and both could have implications in the passing game – both on offense and defense.

Starting safety Danny Eaves hurt his knee in practice on Tuesday and his status for the Gophers is undetermined, Bohl said. Meanwhile, Bohl said backup receiver Trevor Gebhart has a strained hamstring and his status is day-to-day.

If Gebhart can’t go, it would mean NDSU’s two prized freshman receivers will miss the game. Zach Vraa broke his collarbone in the season opener and will not be available until later in the season.

“You can’t be disappointed because injuries are part of the game,” Bohl said. “They are two different types of injuries.”

Bohl said sophomore Ryan Smith has continued to make progress. He’ll be one starting receiver opposite of Warren Holloway. Smith, a former running back, has gone from an experiment of sorts in spring football to a dependable receiver this fall.

“Just like all season, we’re going to have to win the one-on-one battles,” Smith said. “Winning those will probably be the difference in us winning a game or not winning a game.”

Kolpack is a sports reporter for The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead, which is owned by Forum Communications Co.

Tags: ndsu football, danny eaves, trevor gebhart, sports