Cougs' backup QB still hurting

Backup quarterback Gary Rogers, who suffered a shoulder sprain against California, was listed in the "no practice" category on the Washington State injury report released Monday.

Rogers suffered the injury to his non-throwing shoulder in the 21-3 home defeat Saturday against California. The injury report said it is a "Grade 3 sprain," which is the most serious sprain.

In a media appearance today, WSU coach Bill Doba is expected to discuss Rogers' chances of being available for the Cougars' home game against Oregon this Saturday.

Rogers started the second half against Cal after starter Alex Brink failed to guide the Cougars to a touchdown in the first half.

Senior receiver Jason Hill was asked Monday in his weekly conference call with reporters to compare the two WSU quarterbacks.

He said Brink "is smarter" and manages the huddle better, but that "Gary throws a little harder."

"Alex kind of finesses the ball in there," Hill said.

Hill said Brink is a team leader at quarterback.

"Alex is definitely our guy," he said.

Hill, who played with a shoulder injury against Cal and was held to two catches, said he was in pain but plans to play this Saturday.

"I'm going to be out there whether it's hurting or not," he said. "My teammates need me."

NOTES

• Oregon is listed as a 4-point favorite against the Cougars.

• With Washington quarterback Isaiah Stanback (foot) out for the season, the starting QB for the Huskies in the Apple Cup could be former Cougars recruit Carl Bonnell.

Bonnell, whose brother Ray was a WSU walk-on defensive end, agreed to accept a WSU scholarship in 2002 and "grayshirted," which means he was going to delay full-time enrollment until January, 2003. Instead, the Kentwood High School graduate changed his mind over the holidays of 2002 and transferred to UW.

Craig Smith: 206-464-8279 or csmith@seattletimes.com