Cliff Kirkpatrick

Rumors from multiple sources continue to circulate that freshmen RB Ashton Jefferson and LB Reggie Williams are off the Oregon State football team.

Coach Mike Riley said he would have a statement about two players who may be off the team soon. Riley confirmed earlier this week that two freshmen got into trouble during the five-day Las Vegas Bowl trip.

Both Jefferson and Williams sat out last season as redshirt players. Jefferson was on scholarship and Williams was a walk-on.

UPDATE: OSU confirmed that both those players are off the team for violating team rules.

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The Oregon State football team practiced in the indoor facility Thursday instead of the stadium, and it wasn’t even raining. Coach Mike Riley moved it inside due to wind.

“We are not going to be playing in any elements this week,” he said of Saturday’s game at Cal.

The only problem with the setup was the Beavers couldn’t practice with the stadium noise piped in. It’s a Thursday tradition, started off of a winning streak back in 2004.

“We’ll be all right,” Riley said. “And, no I’m not superstitious.”

The dinged up players returned full force with C Alex Linnenkohl (sick), who should start. CB Tim Clark (concussion) returned to practice after being out all week.

Riley said Clark won’t start, but Brandon Hardin will. “Hardin is probably going to start,” he said. “Tim has missed so much this week, that’s what’s going to happen.”

That’s not the case with Linnenkohl because he’s more of an experienced player, Riley said, and will step back into his role easily with one practice and a walkthrough. If he can’t go Ryan Pohl will take his place.

S Suaesi Tuimaunei worked in with the first string for Lance Mitchell, who has been slowed by a leg injury.

“Lance is gimpy,” Riley said. “He was late coming out today to get treatment. He’ll be all right and play in the game.”

Freshman RB Ashton Jefferson, who is redshirting, has been out recovering from a broken bone in his left foot. He should be back for spring practice. “I don’t think he’ll practice again this year,” Riley said.

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