Earlier in the day on the Southeastern Conference teleconference, LSU coach Les Miles said that Michael Ford could be used as a running back in Saturday's game against Arkansas.

Ford, a freshman from Leesville High School, has not played this season. Therefore, he would lose his redshirt season by participating against the Razorbacks.

Miles straightened out the situation in his post-practice press conference Wednesday night.

"Ford is an emergency-type back only," Miles said. "He would only play if we lost several running backs to injury. Ford has taken snaps this week. He is ready to run if needed."

The Tigers are down three running backs - Charles Scott, Keiland Williams and Richard Murphy. The only healthy pure tailback is Stevan Ridley.

Russell Shepard and Trindon Holliday will be the backups Saturday. Miles has said that Dominique Allen can be used as a running back. So, there is realistically no chance that Ford would see action against Arkansas.

Another position which has been hit hard by injuries is tight end. At the end of the Ole Miss game, both Mitch Joseph and Tyler Edwards were unavailable.

Richard Dickson and Deangelo Peterson were able to play. However, Peterson is utilized mostly as a receiving tight end. So, the Tigers were limited in two-tight end sets.

According to Miles, Edwards will play against the Hogs. Joseph has practiced this week, but Miles wasn't sure that he would be able to play. Miles also said that Jordan Jefferson's ankle is improved over a week ago.

Miles mentioned that practices this week have been very good. He is quite pleased with the team's resiliency.

"I liked how the team responded to this week's practices," Miles said. "They have practiced hard and fast. On a competitive team with guys who want to win, after a period of time, (last game) is over. It's about the next game."

Miles acknowledged it has been a rough period of time for him since the loss to Ole Miss due to the poor clock management at the end of the game.

"I'd have to say it's been an unusual time," Miles said. "I understand the rigors of this profession. There are highs and lows. I've had a lot of people call and visit with me this week to talk about what took place."

Miles would not name the people with whom he talked.

The Tigers will practice during the morning Thursday so players who live near Baton Rouge have the opportunity to eat Thanksgiving dinner with their families. LSU practiced Wednesday with the new helmets and shoes they will wear Saturday.