Oregon Ducks star running back LaMichael James could be ready to play next week, reports Jason Vondersmith of the Portland Tribune.
Although he is still bothered by swelling and soreness, James said he is feeling "really good," and that he could play if he was called upon. Although he claims to be at only about 80 percent currently, he can "definitely play."
His return, however, may not be as pressing as initially feared when the injury sidelined him. In Saturday's much-anticipated game against Arizona State, James cheered on his backup, Kenjon Barner, who racked up career highs with 31 carries for 171 yards. James heaped praise on Barner, saying he felt as though his backup was doing everything right.
It's good news for the Ducks and for Oregon fans that James is healing quickly and raring to go, but considering the showcase that Oregon put on against ASU, his return shouldn't be needed so badly as the team travels to Colorado this week. Particularly if Barner can repeat some of the success he had on Saturday night.
Discuss the relative merits of James and Barner at SB Nation's Ducks blog, Addicted to Quack.