Virginia Tech running backs will return for home opener Saturday

BLACKSBURG — Virginia Tech should have a full complement of running backs against Western Carolina on Saturday.

J.C. Coleman, who missed the Alabama opener with a sprained ankle, is listed as probable on Thursday’s injury report for the Hokies’ home opener at Lane Stadium.

Coleman, who ran for 492 yards last year, tops among the tailbacks, is listed as the co-No. 1 running back on the depth chart with Trey Edmunds, who had 132 rushing yards in his college debut, including a 77-yard touchdown run.

Running back Joel Caleb also returns from a one-game suspension, although he’s behind Chris Mangus on the depth chart.

Receiver Charley Meyer, who missed the opener with a hamstring issue, is also probable. He’s Demitri Knowles‘ backup at flanker.

Three players — cornerback Antone Exum (knee), offensive lineman Mark Shuman (knee) and defensive lineman Tyrel Wilson (knee) — are out.

The biggest change to the depth chart was redshirt freshman Josh Stanford moving ahead of senior D.J. Coles for the top spot at split end. Coles struggled against Alabama, dropping a pass and giving up on a few costly routes .

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