LINEUP NOTES: Hineline to step in for Ahmu

DEFENSIVE TACKLE Fevaea'i Ahmu will miss one half of Saturday's football game per a decision by the player Unity Council, according to Washington State's SID. Adam Hineline, also a senior, is expected to play in his place, and WSU also saw another defensive tackle, plus an o-lineman, return to action in Thursday's practice.

DT Toby Turpin (thumb) was clubbed up on Thursday and participated in the afternoon session. He is expected to back up Adam Hineline, who was part of the d-tackle rotation in the Cougs' season opener, while Fevaea'i Ahmu sits out two quarters. Matt Eichelberger is the other d-line starter in the Cougs' base defense.

pel Back in the spring, Hineline was among the "pleasant surprises" Paul Wulff mentioned to CF.C, with the head man saying he thought Hineline would contribute and help the Cougs this coming season.

"Adam Hineline came back and started playing again and did a nice job," said Wulff at the time. "He's lost 20-25 pounds and it's allowed him to function better -- he was a pleasant surprise on defense."

Offensive lineman Brian Danaher returned to practice on Thursday and is expected to start, getting the nod for the second time in as many weeks.

As reported earlier, LT Vaughn Lesuma (back) looks good to go this week, said Wulff on Thursday afternoon.

WR Daniel Blackledge will play but might not start. Jared Karstetter would get the start if Blackledge does not.

CB Markus Dawes remains questionable. The senior corner has been able to practice some this week coming off his offseason shoulder surgery.

CB Tyrone Justin, a redshirt frosh, is likely to get his first start in place of injured Alfonso Jackson. Sophomore Romeo Pellum is the other probable starter out on the island for Cal. Pellum started last week against Okie State, and Justin saw significant playing time.

Punter Reid Forrest looks ready to return to the starting lineup as well this week.

NOTABLE:
This week's Crimson & Gray podcast with host Jason Puckett is now online. This week's show includes a preview of the Cal game and discussions with Cal broadcaster Joe Starkey, WSU linebacker Greg Trent, former WSU Quarterback Jason Gesser and KJR host and WSU alum Ian Furness. To listen in, head to http://kjram.com/pages/cougars_page.html.