Injuries could hamper Beavers vs. Trojans

Updated: October 26, 2006, 4:47 PM ET

Oregon State star RB Yvenson Bernard possibly missing the USC game highlights this week's Pac-10 notebook.

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By Ted Miller
Special to ESPN.com

The talk in Corvallis is all about Yvenson Bernard's bum ankle. It's hard to believe a player celebrated for his toughness will sit out USC's visit Saturday, but the Pac-10's second-leading rusher is listed as doubtful by coach Mike Riley. Oregon State is 4-0 in games when Bernard eclipses the 100-yard mark. Bernard was on crutches Tuesday but, according to The Oregonian, has been telling teammates he'll play. If he can't go, then Clinton Polk, who has 112 yards on 29 carries this season, will step in.

• The Beavers have two other injury questions on offense. Center Kyle DeVan sprained his knee during the win over Arizona, but it appears he'll start against USC. The line already lost one starter, right tackle Josh Linehan, who isn't expected to return from knee surgery for at least another week. Receiver Ruben Jackson remains day-to-day with a sprained ankle.

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