Freshman quarterback A.J. Highsmith said he didn't prepare any differently this week, even with sophomore starter Jacory Harris dealing with a finger injury. But Highsmith said he will be ready if his number is called Saturday against Duke.

``I'm a lot more comfortable than when I first arrived here,'' Highsmith said. ``Everything is slowing down for me. I'm really learning the system a lot. . . . I'm a lot more comfortable now with playing time.''

Highsmith (6-0, 195 pounds) has taken snaps in four series -- two each against Florida A&M and Virginia. He completed four of his six passes for 53 yards and a touchdown and has been sacked once.

He said the biggest thing he has learned on the bench and from Harris and offensive coordinator Mark Whipple is to have confidence in himself and move from one play to the next, no matter what happens.

• Harris (hand) and freshman safety Ray Ray Armstrong (leg) are listed as probable for Saturday's game on UM's injury report. Linebacker Sean Spence (leg) and safety Vaughn Telemaque (shoulder) are listed as questionable and probably will be game-time decisions.

Ruled out: receiver Thearon Collier (ankle), cornerback Sam Shields (leg), fullback Patrick Hill (ankle) and running back Lee Chambers (leg).