Penn State running backs Barkley, Lynch could return

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) Penn State coach James Franklin says he does not believe injuries to his top two running backs will end their seasons. Saquon Barkley

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) Penn State coach James Franklin says he does not believe injuries to his top two running backs will end their seasons.

Saquon Barkley and Akeel Lynch were both hurt in the second quarter of Penn State's 37-21 win over San Diego State on Saturday. They are questionable for this week against Army.

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Franklin said Tuesday he anticipates getting them back, but isn't sure when.

Franklin extended the same prognosis to starting safeties Jordan Lucas and Marcus Allen, both of whom spent most of the last game on the sideline.

Allen injured his right arm on Penn State's first defensive series and Lucas, who briefly left the team's Week 3 game against Rutgers with a right shoulder injury, was ruled out before kickoff. Franklin says Malik Golden and Troy Apke filled in but having Lucas and Allen - who both excel in run support - back will be a boost against Army's run-heavy, triple-option offense.