NOTEBOOK: Andrews returns, Agnew shut-down?

OG JOSH ANDREWS APPEARS to be on the cusp of returning to action earlier than expected. Meanwhile, this could be a very big week for RB Malcolm Agnew as it relates to the rest of his season. If he plays, then it’s full steam ahead. If not, if his injured hamstring isn't ready, Mike Riley is talking about shutting him down for the rest of the season.

Malcolm Agnew could play on Saturday but his hamstring is still “a little tight” according to an interview with the Oregonian.

It’s hard to imagine the Beavs would play him if there’s still an elevated risk of re-injury. And this game seems to be the benchmark Mike Riley has in mind.

"If he plays in this game then he's healthy and can play the rest of the year. If he doesn't play in this game, then he probably won't play (the rest of the year) and we'll appeal to get his year back," said Riley.

A decision is expected Thursday or Friday on Agnew’s availability for BYU, (TV: FSC, 1 p.m.)

Left guard Josh Andrews (MCL) is back practicing this week but will not start and instead back up Grant Enger.

Andrews was injured in Week 2 against Wisconsin but says he’s back to 100 percent after getting a few practices in under his belt this week. Enger has filled in nicely in his absence, particularly in pass protection.

NOTABLE NOTES
RB Jovan Stevenson is being eased back into practice and it appears he has no lingering effects from Saturday’s hit that gave rise to possible concussion-like symptoms. Expect him to play on Saturday all things being equal, along with Terron Ward and Jordan Jenkins in OSU’s running back by committee.

However, slot receiver Jordan Bishop (ankle) didn't practice on Wednesday and appears doubtful at this point for BYU.