Childers’ Injury Costly for Defense

Defensive end Matt Childers underwent surgery Sunday to have a plate put in his broken right arm and is expected to be released from the hospital today. He will sit out the final two games of the season.

Only a week ago, the senior recovered a fumble to secure a double-overtime victory over Arizona State. Coach Paul Hackett said his loss will hurt the defense.

“He plays with such great energy,” Hackett said. “His momentum. His enthusiasm.”

Shamsud-Din Abdul-Shaheed will move into his spot for the game against UCLA at the Rose Bowl on Saturday. Abdul-Shaheed had six tackles, including one for a loss, against Washington State.

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The injury news was more promising for two other starters.

Linebacker Markus Steele, who missed the last two games because of a sprained ankle, jogged through practice without a noticeable limp. Team doctors will wait until Tuesday to make a final decision about Steele’s availability but the senior said, “I’ll be ready.”

Kicker John Wall, who sat out of the Washington State game after straining a groin muscle, is also expected to return.

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Officials are expected to decide today about the kickoff time for Saturday’s game.