Nebraska’s Riley: Pierson-El could play some against Illini

De’Mornay Pierson-El led the nation in punt return yards in 2014. (Courtesy Scott Bruhn/NU Media Relations) — *(Courtesy Scott Bruhn/NU Media Relations)*

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — De’Mornay Pierson-El might be able to play in a limited role when Nebraska opens Big Ten play at Illinois on Saturday.

Pierson-El has been out since mid-August with a broken right foot. Coach Mike Riley said the dynamic punt returner and receiver is returning to practice this week. How much he plays this week, if any, depends on how he progresses in workouts.

Riley says it’s “50-50” that linebacker Josh Banderas (groin) and defensive linemen Vincent Valentine (ankle) and Jack Gangwish (elbow) would play against the Illini.

Marcus Newby, who started in place of Rose-Ivey, also is questionable after leaving the Southern Miss game in the second half with a groin injury.