Q: Can you update us on player opt-outs, and specifically the status of Kaytron Allen and Dani Dennis-Sutton?

A: Yes — both Dani Dennis-Sutton and Kaytron Allen will dress and be available for the game.

Players who will not participate are:
Alex Birchmeier, Chaz Coleman, Zane Durant, Zuriah Fisher, AJ Harris, Vega Ioane, Kari Jackson, Daniel Jennings, Nick Singleton, Alex Tatsch, Elliot Washington, Zakee Wheatley, Nick Dawkins, Khalil Dinkins, Nolan Rucci and Drew Shelton.

Q: Will Deion Barnes be coaching in the game?

A: Yes. Deion will coach and be part of the team tomorrow. Our full focus is on this game, and he’ll help us compete and win.

Q: With so many offensive line starters out, how confident are you in that unit — and who needs to step up?

A: Guys like Cooper Cousins, T.J. Shanahan and Dominic Rulli have already logged meaningful snaps this year. It’s “next man up,” and based on their experience, we don’t expect a drop-off.

Q: At defensive end, who steps up without Zuriah Fisher and Chaz Coleman?

A: Jaylen Harvey and Yvan Kemajou will take on bigger roles. Yvan has already played a lot down the stretch, and Jaylen now has an opportunity to move to the forefront.

Q: With A.J. Harris and Elliot Washington out, which young cornerbacks are ready to step up?

A: Daryus Dixson continues to impress and will play a big role. Jahmir Joseph will also see significant snaps.
At nickel, Kenny Woseley will continue to rotate behind Zion Tracy. We’re confident in the “next-man-up” approach.

Q: With so many opt-outs, is it disappointing not to have them available?

A: We’re not disappointed. This is a great opportunity to finish the season strong and for others to step forward. This is today’s college football — you adapt and move on. Our focus is tomorrow’s game.

Q: How are you preparing for the cold weather?

A: We practice outside daily, so the players are used to it. Being from the north helps — the cold isn’t a concern.

Q: With multiple tackles out, who fills in on the perimeter of the offensive line?

A: Coach Phil Trautwein is rotating players and preparing different combinations. We’ll finalize personnel at game time. The run game will still be essential to our success.

Q: Which reserve running backs have stood out in bowl prep?

A: Corey Smith has really flashed — he’s explosive and shifty.
Quinton Martin has also had a strong month and will get opportunities.
Cam Wallace is returning from a major injury and will also see snaps.

Q: With Zakee Wheatley out, who leads the safety group?

A: Dejuan Lane and Vaboue Toure will step into larger roles.
Lamont Payne may also contribute.
King Mack will continue to anchor his spot.

Again — next-man-up.

Q: What has it been like working with Coach Matt Campbell during bowl prep?

A: It’s been great. Communication has been strong, and he’s been very accessible. While his staff focuses on roster building, we’ve focused on this game — and the cooperation has been excellent.

Q: How has Jordan Lucas performed coaching cornerbacks?

A: Jordan has grown a lot — just as I have in this interim role. He continues improving, relates well to players, and has a bright future as a DB coach.

Q: What progress have you seen from Jaylen Harvey?

A: He’s an athletic edge rusher who creates problems outside. His biggest growth has been consistency and attention to detail. We hope that continues tomorrow.

Q: Will Matt Campbell be on the sideline during the game?

A: He’ll be present, but likely not on the sideline. He wants the current staff to run the game while he handles media duties.