Arizona will face Northern Illinois without sophomore wide receiver Gio Richardson, who suffered a lower-body injury during the Wildcats’ 28-17 loss to BYU. Coach Brent Brennan said Monday that Richardson will be unavailable “for a little bit,” but did not provide a specific return date.
Richardson had 14 receptions for 161 yards before leaving the BYU game in the second quarter. Arizona enters Week 3 with a 1-1 record and will host Northern Illinois, which is 0-2 after losing to FCS opponent Illinois State in its previous game. The matchup is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Mountain time and will be televised on TNT.
Brennan said Arizona has several receivers who could take on larger roles. He identified Tre Spivey and Chris Hunter as players the team wants to involve more, while also citing contributions from Rodney Gallagher and Brandon Phelps. Brennan said the group has depth and that its playing-time distribution would develop through practice.
Freshman Caleb “Jet” Smith could also receive additional opportunities, although Brennan said young players need time to adjust to the speed, formations and coverage changes of college football. Smith has contributed as a punt and kickoff returner, and Brennan said his role will expand as he continues to gain repetitions.
Brennan also discussed the return of recently eligible senior players Ismail Mahdi and Max Harris. Mahdi is a running back, while Harris is a linebacker. Brennan said both players bring energy and strong practice habits, and he expects their responsibilities to grow.
