Mark Fletcher's injury should finally open the door for Jordan Lyle to get on the field

The Miami Hurricanes running back situation is getting thinner by the hour with the word that Mark Fletcher Jr. appears unlikely to play against Central Michigan. Fletcher's injury comes at a time when Jordan Lyle is in line to make his season debut.

Fletcher was banged up in Miami's Week 3 win over Wake Forest and his absence was a big part of the Hurricanes' failure to get much going on offense in the second half against the Demon Deacons. Miami was already without Marty Brown, who will miss the rest of the season with a lower-body injury.

The injuries have been piling up on both sides of the ball. And Fletcher's lack of availability should open the door for Javian Mallory and Girard Pringle Jr. to receive plenty of carries. Whether Jordan Lyle joins them or not will depend on whether Mario Cristobal decides it's time for the junior to play. The coach acknowledged that Lyle was suspended for the first two games, and he was dressed for the Wake Forest game, but did not play.

RB Mark Fletcher appears unlikely to play against Central Michigan

Fletcher has 230 yards and three touchdowns on 36 carries this season. Last week against Wake Forest, Fletcher had 85 yards on 16 carries and showed much of the physical running style that he's been known for.

Mallory, the true freshman from Boca Raton, has taken advantage of his opportunities this season and would seem to be inline to be the designated starter against the Chippewas. But there's going to be a group by committee with the exception that Lyle will receive some playing time.

Ahmad Moten Sr. is also not expected to play

The defensive line rotation has stayed consistent, but Ahmad Moten's potential absence can't be replaced by one guy. Keona Davis, a Nebraska transfer, is likely to get extended snaps, but Armondo Blount has the ability to play inside and out, so it's possible that he will spend more time on the interior, which would allow Damon Wilson II and Marquise Lightfoot to start on the edge. 

Moten was also banged up against Wake Forest and missed some time in the first half with an upper-body injury. He returned and played most of the game. 

The Hurricanes have been bitten hard by the injury bug, and it's stretched the depth at several areas. Miami is down its top three cornerbacks, top two running backs and a starting receiver (Joshua Moore) among others. But, you won't hear excuses from Cristobal.

"Football is very unforgiving at times. But you support each other . . .help your guys stay mentally strong and get them to a place where they're ready to contribute . . .their time will come again," he said during his Monday media availability. 

Right now, the Hurricanes' toughness, both mental and physical, is being tested. 

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