MSU running back LJ Scott questionable for game vs. CMU

East Lansing — If college football teams were required to submit an injury list each week, Michigan State’s would be as lengthy as any in the Big Ten.

There haven’t been any players lost for the season outside of senior cornerback Tyson Smith, who announced before preseason camp his career was ending because of ongoing injury problems. But the small bumps and bruises have been piling up.

As No. 21 Michigan State prepares to host Central Michigan on Saturday, there are quite a few players whose status is up in the air, including senior running back LJ Scott. He was on the sidelines last Saturday night at Indiana, but did not play.

Coach Mark Dantonio said then that Scott, who left the Arizona State game early in the second half, was battling an ankle injury and he didn’t think the Spartans’ leading rusher was ready. His status this week seems just as tough to predict. When Dantonio was asked Tuesday if Scott as day-to-day or if he expected him back this week, his answer didn’t shed much light.

“Probably a little of both,” Dantonio said. “I expect him to play. Maybe day-to-day.

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“He may be out there today or he may not be. Probably the best answer I can give you.”

The running game could use the help, and that includes along the offensive line. During the win at Indiana, guard/tackle Luke Campbell and guard Kevin Jarvis both suffered injuries. Jarvis did not return after going down in the third quarter while Campbell returned late in the games.

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Left tackle Cole Chewins, who has been battling an injury, played at least one series, while guard David Beedle returned to fill in for Jarvis.

Wide receiver Cam Chambers and cornerback Josh Butler also suffered injuries but Dantonio said on Tuesday he doesn’t think any of the players hurt during the game will be out long-term.

As for the status of sophomore cornerback Josiah Scott, who was hurt at the beginning of preseason camp, Dantonio said the freshman All-American has still not returned to practice but he doesn’t expect him to be in danger of losing the season.

“I don't think his season is at risk, no, but he's not ready to play yet,” Dantonio said. “I expect him back this year.”

mcharboneau@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @mattcharboneau