Oregon State's Rodgers ready to make his 2011 debut

At 0-2, Oregon State is in a world of trouble. And conference play hasn't even begun yet for the Beavers.

But Mike Riley's team could get a big boost this weekend, as star receiver/returner James Rodgers will "probably" play against UCLA in the Pac-12 opener, according to Paul Buker of The Oregonian.

James RodgersICONOregon State's James Rodgers could make his 2011 debut this weekend.

After just two contests, the Beavers face a must-win situation against a Rick Neuheisel squad facing its own must-win scenario.

The return of the 5-7, 188-pound Rodgers, who suffered a serious left knee injury last season at Arizona and underwent two operations as a result, will at least help an offense that has been banged-up, ineffective and is now being lead by Sean Mannion after the benching of Ryan Katz.

Rodgers was practicing at full speed with the first string during the team's bye week while wearing a knee brace, which he said has taken some getting used to; however, he has reportedly been making difficult catches in traffic, turning the corner on the fly sweeps and diving for balls at practice.

Along with Markus Wheaton and true freshman Brandin Cooks, Rodgers at least will give the redshirt freshman Mannion some pieces to work with offensively in the passing game.

Email dave.miller@nationalfootballpost.com or follow me on Twitter at Miller_Dave

Upcoming Games