ANN ARBOR – Michigan center Jake Guarnera wanted to make one thing perfectly clear and said offensive lineman Andrew Sprague has not quit on the team.
Sprague, started the first two games at right tackle, but suddenly, within 24 hours of Game 3 against UTEP, was unable to play. He has not played since, and on Monday, Oct. 12, head coach Kyle Whittingham said Sprague is “way out there” in terms of returning this season.
“I am perplexed, and so is he, I think,” said Whittingham, who has not disclosed what has sidelined Sprague. “Several opinions, differing opinions and I guess now the opinions have dovetailed a little bit and kinda settled in a place where everyone’s in agreement. Doesn’t change the fact he’s not available or won’t be available for several weeks.”
More: Michigan’s ‘biggest demise is turnover margin,’ Whittingham says
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Guarnera met with reporters Tuesday, Oct. 13 after practice and was asked about Sprague.
“He’s really upset that he can’t be with the team,” Guarnera said. “I see all this stuff online, people saying all kinds of things. He’s got stuff going on, and he can explain it if he wants to, but he’s still with the team, he’s still doing great and helping us out.
“He’s never quit on us, so I think just helping him out and keeping him in high spirits in what he’s doing, that’s kind of what I’ve been trying to do.”
There has been rampant speculation regarding Sprague’s absence, and that has frustrated Guarnera.
“I try not to look at a lot of that stuff, but I kind of see it here and there,” he said. “It’s a little frustrating, but it is what it is.”
Sprague is doing well, according to Guarnera.
“Still with the team, still leading,” he said.
More: Whittingham: ‘Passion and energy’ key to Michigan’s success
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Michigan teammate defends Andrew Sprague amid rumors