TCU could be missing as many as four starters Saturday against Iowa State, including running backs B.J. Catalon and Waymon James, as well as cornerback Jason Verrett and wide receiver Brandon Carter.
Starting running back B.J. Catalon is “probably” out with an unspecified injury, said head coach Gary Patterson. Catalon was injured Saturday against West Virginia, but did not know when the injury occurred.
“You know, I don’t think he really knows,” Patterson said. “He just walked in Sunday and was hurt.”
The Horned Frogs could be out two starting running backs since Catalon’s fellow starter, Waymon James, had been suspended for violating team rules.
“In Waymon’s case, it’s a hard situation because he only has a couple games left as a senior,” Patterson said, “and it’s too bad he’s put himself in that position.”
The coach would not say how long the suspension would last or if James would begin serving it Saturday. Patterson said he was upset when the news broke Tuesday.
“I’m about ready to play him just because all of you guys said he wasn’t [playing],” he said. “It was a suspension indefinitely, but I didn’t say when it started and I didn’t say when it finished. I didn’t say how long [it would be].”
James and Catalon both missed the first quarter against Texas on Nov. 26 for team violations. If they are not available Saturday, tailbacks Aaron Green and Jordan Moore will have increased roles in the offense.
Patterson said All-American Cornerback Jason Verrett is injured as well, but did not rule him out against the Cyclones.
“Jason Verrett may play, but he probably won’t practice all week,” the coach said.
Verrett sat out late in games against SMU and Kansas because of a shoulder injury. His backup, Keivon Gamble, injured his ankle Saturday against West Virginia. Sophomore nickel back Derrick Kindred and freshman corner Ranthony Texada could see more action if those two cannot play.
Wide receiver Brandon Carter’s status is also unknown. Carter missed Saturday’s game because of a family situation. Patterson said after the game that he did not know if he would return this season, however Carter was at practice on Sunday.
TCU’s game against Iowa State kicks off Saturday at 11 a.m. on FSN.
