The latest report out of Tucson is that starting receiver Juron Criner is back at practice after missing two and a half weeks with a concussion. It seems like Criner is a lock to be ready by September 3 for the opener against Toledo. The Cats were also able to get Vaughn Dotsy and Conan Amituanai back on the field. These guys are key to the offensive line and are working towards being ready to go by the opener. There is no definite on their status. The bright side to this is that the backups, Chris Putton and Jovon Hayes, have been getting some reps with the first team. Should any of the linemen go down early in the season, these guys have some chemistry with the first team to step in and be productive.
Taimi Tutogi is the other Cats player who is slated for playing time this year and has been sitting out since August 9, 2010. He is still hampered by the ankle that he injured and has yet to return. The timetable on him is unknown at this point. Let's hope Tutogi can get healthy as he will be a big part of our lead blocking on short yardage distance plays this year.