MINNEAPOLIS — The Big Ten has released the availability report for Penn State’s game at Minnesota on Saturday, and the Nittany Lions will be without a notable defensive player. Cornerback Elliot Washington II, who leads the team with five pass deflections, has been ruled inactive prior to kickoff.
Washington exited with an injury in the second quarter at Purdue last weekend and did not return. He was absent during a practice viewing session open to the media on Wednesday.
In Washington’s absence against the Boilermakers, cornerback Audavion Collins stepped up and played a season-high 28 snaps. Collins has played some of his best football over Penn State’s previous two games, combining for nine tackles and a sack. His role should continue to grow on Saturday with Washington sidelined.
“I think as he continues to have opportunities and make some plays, his confidence will continue to grow and you’ll see his role continue to grow, as well, in the program,” Franklin said. “He’s that close to making some big time plays for us.”
Another notable addition to the availability report is wide receiver Julian Fleming, who has hauled in 13 receptions for 171 yards and a touchdown across all 10 games this year. If Fleming is unable to play or is limited, that could open the door for true freshman Tyseer Denmark to play increased snaps.
A total of eight players have been ruled out against the Golden Gophers. Besides Washington, that list includes safety Kevin Winston Jr., wide receiver Kaden Saunders, running back Cam Wallace, safety Kolin Dinkins, linebacker Keon Wylie, defensive end Zuriah Fisher and tight end Andrew Rappleyea.
As for Minnesota, starting safety Aidan Gousby is out while starting left guard Tyler Cooper returns from an injury that’s left him sidelined for almost a month.
