UM coach Al Golden expects center Nick Linder to play vs. Virginia Tech

All three injured Hurricanes that missed Tuesday’s practice returned Wednesday to prepare for Virginia Tech, none more crucial than sophomore center Nick Linder.

Linder (neck/shoulder/trapezius) wore a yellow, limited-contact jersey, but snapped during drills and participated in practice.

“I’m real good,’’ Linder said. “It hasn’t limited me at all.’’

Coach Al Golden still had Alex Gall and Hunter Knight take reps inside, but said that he expects Linder to play Saturday.

Also returning were nose tackle Kendrick Norton (ankle) and outside linebacker Demetrius Jackson (cut on foot), with Norton in yellow.

Golden said sophomore linebacker Marques Gayot, who injured his neck during practice Sept. 23 and has not played since, “is doing great’’ and still with the team, though he is not practicing. Multiple sources said he likely won’t be back this season.

“We’re going to err on the side of just being cautious and let the doctors handle it and we’ll see where it goes,’’ the coach said. “I don’t even think he’s wearing a neck collar anymore and he’s back to lifting some.’’

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 9:01 PM with the headline "UM coach Al Golden expects center Nick Linder to play vs. Virginia Tech."