Farmer Might Miss Opener Because of Ankle Injury

What was first thought to be a minor ankle sprain now threatens to keep star flanker Danny Farmer out of the season opener against Boise State and that would be another blow to an already depleted squad.

The Bruins are better able to handle a loss at receiver than at any other position because of their depth there, but that is the only comfort. Twelve starters and key reserves are already out for the first game because of suspensions, and there are indications that Farmer won’t be at 100% for the marquee nonconference game Sept. 11 at Ohio State, if he’s back at all.

“They’re thinking that it’s going to be a couple weeks,” Coach Bob Toledo said. “He’s very doubtful for Boise State right now.

“Usually these injuries take awhile. I’m being very optimistic in saying two weeks.”

Under that timetable, Farmer would resume workouts around Sept. 6 and have only days to get ready for No. 9 Ohio State. Any more missed practices could cost the All-American candidate another game.

Farmer twisted the ankle on the opening drive of Saturday’s scrimmage. He was blocking downfield on a run by quarterback Drew Bennett and defensive back Jason Stephens inadvertently pushed tailback DeShaun Foster on Farmer’s left leg. Swelling and soreness set in the next day.

By Monday, Farmer was on crutches and wearing a plastic boot. Stephens, the projected starter at strong safety, was on crutches too, having twisted his right knee later in the scrimmage. He, though, is expected back for Boise State.

“I’m going to do everything I can to get back,” Farmer said. “I’ve already been working on it and doing all the things the trainers say.”

*

Significant developments on the first depth chart, reflecting the suspensions:

* Brad Melsby has moved ahead of incumbent Brian Poli-Dixon at split end and will likely start against Boise State.

* Asi Faoa, a true freshman from Anaheim Magnolia High, is No. 1 at one outside linebacker spot, ahead of Santi Hall, who might be shifted to defensive end when Ryan Nece, Tony White, Robert Thomas and Ali Abdul Azziz return from their two-game suspensions.

* Of the eight projected starters or backups in the secondary, one is a freshman, two are redshirt freshmen and two are sophomores.