Lincoln, Neb.- The Nebraska football team practiced for a little more than an hour without pads in the Hawks Championship Center on Thursday in preparation for Saturday’s game against Purdue.

Coach Riley updated the media on current injuries. He began with players who will be returning to the field Saturday. The list of players included Nick Gates, Chris Weber, Kevin Maurice and Boaz Joseph. Players who will not be playing this week include Michael Rose-Ivey, Luke Gifford, Kevin Williams, Byerson Cockrell, David Knevel and quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr.

Riley talked about Ryker Fyfe, who will make his first career start at quarterback on Saturday.

“I like Ryker, he is going to do fine. He has prepared well from the very start of camp and I’m excited for him.” Riley said.

Riley went on to talk about his confidence in the transition between Armstrong and Fyfe.

“Ryker is not held back by not knowing. It’s just experience by playing. He’s run all these plays, he’s been the sole guy this week to take the first-string reps and get to execute in practice the simulation of Purdue’s defense.” Riley said.

“If I just said one word it would be efficient. I would be real pleased with an efficient, smart game,” Riley said of the most important part of Saturday’s game for his football team. “I think we had a great week of practice. I really appreciate this team, more so this week with all they’ve been through. I am just looking for us to play efficiently. With that investment said, we will be physical and play hard.”