Watch CBS News

Hoke Says Peppers 'Frustrated' About Not Playing; No Decision About Redshirting

By Ashley Dunkak
@AshleyDunkak

CBS DETROIT - Expected to start as a true freshman, Michigan defensive back Jabrill Peppers has only played in three of eight games for the Wolverines this season, and Michigan head coach Brady Hoke announced Monday that Peppers will not dress for Saturday's game against Indiana.

Hoke noted that same day that the Wolverines will redshirt senior linebacker Desmond Morgan, citing as one factor the fact the season is two-thirds over.

Whether Peppers might also redshirt, however, is still up in the air. He suffered what appeared to be an ankle injury against Appalachian State, missed the Notre Dame game, and then played against Miami (Ohio) and Utah. Leading up to the Minnesota game, Peppers suffered a leg injury in practice, and he has not played in a game since then.

Hoke said Michigan would consult with both a player and his family before making a decision on whether a player will redshirt.

"I want them to know we'll make a group decision on it, and what's best for Michigan first and what's best for that young man," Hoke said at his Wednesday availability, per the Detroit News.

"When I see him being a little frustrated or not as happy, whatever you want to call it, I'm gonna approach him on it," Hoke added. "He's a competitive guy, pretty well thought of coming out of high school, and all of a sudden you have two things that kind of set you back. It's hard. It's difficult."

Hoke indicated the Wolverines are not on the clock to make a decision on whether Peppers will redshirt.

"I don't know if there is a point of no return," Hoke said, according to the News. "The one thing you look at, how good a guy is, will he be here five years anyway, would he be here four years, would he be here three years?"

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.