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By Bryan Colbert Jr.
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The Oregon Ducks are preparing for one of their biggest games of the season, but they could be without a key offensive weapon when they face the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday.
Standout running back Jordon Davison is expected to miss Oregon's upcoming matchup against No. 12 Ohio State because of a lower-extremity injury, according to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz.
The injury is not believed to be season-ending, with Davison reportedly considered week-to-week.
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Davison suffered the injury during Oregon's 34-26 victory over Northwestern on Saturday, leaving the game in the first quarter after being tackled on a screen pass.
The sophomore running back was later seen on the sidelines wearing street clothes and using crutches.
He finished the contest with 17 rushing yards on three carries.
Despite the concerning development, Oregon head coach Dan Lanning expressed optimism about Davison's recovery earlier this week.
"I don't think it's long-term with Jordon," Lanning said Monday while discussing the running back's status.
The injury comes at a difficult time for Oregon, which enters Saturday's matchup with a 5-3 record and little room for additional setbacks.
Davison has been one of the Ducks' most productive offensive players this season, leading the team with 439 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 91 carries.
His potential absence creates additional uncertainty in an Oregon backfield already dealing with injuries.
Running back Dierre Hill Jr. also exited Saturday's victory over Northwestern after suffering an injury, leaving his availability against Ohio State in question. However, freshman Brandon Smith provided an encouraging performance in relief.
Smith rushed for 82 yards and a touchdown on eight carries against Northwestern while adding four receptions for 32 yards.
His emergence could prove especially important if Oregon is forced to play without both Davison and Hill.
The Ducks are also navigating the season without starting quarterback Dante Moore, who suffered a season-ending injury earlier this year.
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With Dylan Raiola now directing the offense, Oregon will need additional contributions from its remaining playmakers against a talented Ohio State defense.
Saturday's matchup carries significant postseason implications for both programs, with Oregon ranked No. 23 and Ohio State sitting at No. 12 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings.
Although Davison's expected absence represents another setback, the possibility of a short-term recovery offers some encouragement.
For now, Oregon must find a way to overcome the loss of its leading rusher while pursuing a crucial road victory that could help keep its postseason aspirations alive.
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