Report: Gunner Kiel Practices, Uncertain To Play Against Miami (FL) Hurricanes

Tom Groeschen of the Cincinnati Enquirer is reporting that Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Gunner Kiel practiced today however he is still questionable to play against the Miami (FL) Hurricanes.

"Kiel (bruised ribs) threw some passes and did some drills but was limited. UC coach Tommy Tuberville lists usual starter Kiel questionable for the Bearcats’ game Saturday at the University of Miami (Florida)."

Tuberville has a minimum two-practices-to-play rule for his team. It’s not set in stone and obviously he could make an exception for his quarterback, especially one the caliber of Gunner Kiel, but I think UC’s big man sticks to his guns on this one.

Really, this is beyond a coach’s simple ideology, it’s logic.

Kiel bruised his ribs badly enough against Memphis that he couldn’t even play the remainder of the game after the injury. It also sounds like he’s had lingering pain as far back as Ohio State. Giving him a week off would certainly do more good than harm for the long term success of this football program this season and the next. Risking deeper injury to Kiel could cost the Bearcats several games down the road and just doesn’t seem ethical for the young man.

Additionally, we have to treat Miami (FL) like a throwaway game. Beating the Hurricanes would be great, sure, but a win or loss has no bearing on Cincinnati’s slot in the AAC standings. With the loss to Memphis last week, getting back in the conference title hunt should be top of mind for this team right now.

So sitting Kiel this Saturday and making due with Munchie Legaux or Jarred Evans is the better decision for this football program. And who knows, many Cincinnati can pull it out. Crazier things have happened.