Rocket Sanders Ruled OUT vs. BYU

During Sam Pittman’s first media availability of the BYU game week, he gave an update on running back Rocket Sanders. With a swollen knee issue, Sanders will miss his second game in a row. It seems like the ol’ ball coach isn’t sure when his lead back will be able to play.

“We’ve got to get some swelling off of him. Once we do that, we’ll see how fast and whether we can have him back for LSU. I just don’t know,” Coach Pittman said. It sounds like the coaching staff is simply unsure regarding additional details on this injury.

Last week against Kent State, AJ Green had 15 carries for 82 yards, stepping up in the absence of Sanders. Against BYU we will also see Rashod Dubinion and Dominique Johnson try to establish themselves as playmakers in this new-look Arkansas offense.

Rocket Sanders was a preseason AP All-American, and any Heisman hype that was brewing has dwindled with him being sidelined with this frustrating injury. The injury is presumed to have occurred in the opener against Western Carolina. After rushing for 1,443 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, Sanders will have some catching up to do upon his return to play.

Losing an All-SEC running back for any amount of time is never great, but hopefully Rocket Sanders will return to play against LSU. In their night debut, the Hogs will host BYU at 6:30 p.m. CT on Saturday on ESPN2.