Iowa running back Mark Weisman hasn't been ruled out for Saturday's game against Penn State, but it doesn't sound like he'll play much or at all after suffering a sprained ankle last week.

Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz said on the Big Ten coaches' teleconference that an MRI performed Monday on Weisman's ankle was "promising," but that Iowa is operating as if it won't have the sophomore Saturday night against the Nittany Lions. That's the standard line from Ferentz with injuries, as Marc Morehouse notes. Ferentz mentioned that it's hard to expect much effectiveness from a running back with a sprained ankle, and Weisman certainly won't be at 100 percent if he takes the field.

Weisman will do light work in Tuesday's practice and be evaluated throughout the week. He has recorded four consecutive 100-yard rushing performances -- 623 total yards, eight touchdowns -- since becoming Iowa's featured back Sept. 15 against Northern Iowa. The Air Force transfer has been by far Iowa's best offensive weapon this season.

Damon Bullock's status is also unclear as he has a concussion, but Iowa could see more from Jordan Canzeri, who has made a quick recovery from a torn ACL this spring. Ferentz said Canzeri has looked better each week, and Iowa likely will need him Saturday night against the Lions.