MarQueis Gray has apparently been cleared to play, and is listed as the Gophers' backup quarterback for Saturday's game against Northwestern.
Gray, who suffered a sprained left ankle and left knee on Sept. 15, returned to practice Sunday, and coach Jerry Kill estimated he was at "60 to 70 percent" of normal Tuesday. But Gray was not included on the team's injury list released Thursday, indicating he has improved to the point where he could play Saturday.
The depth chart lists Gray and freshman Philip Nelson as backups, meaning Gray's status could change if he feels soreness on Saturday. But Kill would prefer not to use Nelson this season.
Max Shortell will make his third consecutive start.
Also listed on the depth chart and available to play: left guard Tommy Olson and center Zach Mottla, both listed as backups as they recover from ankle injuries; and defensive tackle Cameron Botticelli, expected to start after suffering an elbow injury at Iowa.
Offensive lineman Foster Bush has been declared out. Tailback Devon Wright and defensive tackle Roland Johnson are questionable.
PHIL MILLER
