Macho might not play vs. ECU

This game just can't get here fast enough.

The Hokies may have suffered another setback. Kyle Tucker of the Virginian-Pilot reports senior cornerback Macho Harris is doubtful for Saturday's game with ECU due to a sprained left foot.

Harris suffered the injury in Friday's scrimmage, the last of the summer. Harris tied for the team lead in interceptions last year and is the starter at boundary corner and punt and kick return. He was also expected to play 10-15 snaps at wide receiver Saturday to make the offense more dynamic.

If Harris doesn't play, the likely starter would be sophomore Rashard Carmichael, who is behind him on the depth chart. The Hokies would then only one returning starter in the secondary, Kam Chancellor, who moves from rover to free safety.

How important is Harris to the Hokies' defense this year? I'm not sure you can measure it. With him in the lineup, the defense looks solid as long as you force the opponent to throw the ball. Without him, you're inviting the opposing offense to test two new corners.

As boundary corner, Harris is also crucial in supplying support to stop the run.

My vote is to sit him. The Hokies have enough talent and enough depth that they should be able to win another close game with the Pirates. Also, sit him for the Furman game, giving him two full weeks to recover before the ACC opener with Georgia Tech. He has to be healthy for that game. Don't risk making the injury worse.