Minnesota upgrades Zeke Bates as Ashton Beers remains questionable

Minnesota upgraded freshman running back Zeke Bates on its Thursday availability report, putting a potential debut in play for Saturday, Sept. 26, at Washington, while starting center Ashton Beers remained questionable against the 3-0 Huskies.

Bates would give Minnesota another backfield option. Beers’ status could force a change along the offensive line, with Minnesota’s final configuration still unknown.

Minnesota enters at 2-1, while Washington is undefeated at 3-0. The Gophers’ chances of handing Washington its first loss — and carrying momentum into the Oct. 3 game against Michigan — depend in part on whether Bates and Beers can contribute. Minnesota has not announced whether Bates will make his debut or whether Beers can start.

The teams meet at 11 p.m. ET Saturday. Minnesota’s offense now waits on both answers.