Junior defensive tackle J.D. Skolnitsky was on the practice field with his JMU teammates Thursday afternoon. But head coach Mickey Matthews isn't sure if Skolnitsky will play on Saturday against Hofstra, because of an ankle injury.

If Skolnitsky can't play, Quintrell Thomas will slide over from defensive end.

Matthews also doesn't expect to have redshirt freshman receiver Kerby Long in the lineup on Saturday. Long did not practice Thursday. He's bothered by knee and ankle injuries.

The Dukes would rotate receivers to fill Long's void. Matthews said Mike Allen, another redshirt freshman, would likely see the biggest increase in playing time.

The coach seemed confident Thursday, that the Dukes had the roster depth to absorb those injuries.

"We really believe as we bring guys along that when their chance comes, we tell them if you get on the field, you need to play," says Matthews. "So we would anticipate (their replacements) will play pretty well.

"It still hurts you some. But we have good depth, and it's time for these guys to step up and play."

Matthews also said Thursday that punter Jason Pritchard would be a game time decision for Saturday. Pritchard has missed JMU's last three games with a hip flexor injury.