Suspense is still in the air, but Coach Jim Tressel says he’s ‘encouraged’ by star running back’s recovery from injury.
By Chris Dufresne (Los Angeles Times) —
Beanie is a go for USC.

The suspense is over. Well, sort of.
Ohio State Coach Jim Tressel announced today that junior tailback Chris “Beanie” Wells would play against USC on Saturday, although how much he plays will depend on how he practices the rest of the week.

Wells injured his right foot in Ohio State’s season-opening win against Youngstown State and sat out last week’s 26-14 win over Ohio.

Tressel said during today’s Big Ten coaches’ conference call that Wells ran well at Monday’s practice.

“I think the key will be how well he is able to practice here in the back half of the week,” Tressel said. Sometimes when you’re coming off an injury a little soreness takes over. I’ll be anxious to see how much soreness he has after yesterday’s workout, but I was encouraged.”

Wells is listed on the depth chart as the team’s starter ahead of Dan Herron.

Wells reportedly told coaches he’s ready to carry the ball 45 times against USC, although Tressel cautioned he would not overwork the tailback if he is not effective.

Wells rushed for 1,609 yards and 15 touchdowns last season in helping to lead Ohio State to its second consecutive Bowl Championship Series national title game.

Starting cornerback Donald Washington and backup Jamario O’Neal are also expected back after serving two game suspensions for violating team rules.

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