A few highlights from Brian Kelly's post-practice press conference Thursday.

On receiver Theo Riddick, who missed last week's romp over Maryland with a hamstring injury. Robby Toma, by the way, was a solid replacement.

"He ran around today," Kelly said of Riddick. "I don't think he's going to be a guy who is going to come in and start for us. We're hoping we can utilize him in a role and try to get him engaged in the game. We'll continue to practice him and work him out and see where we go from there."

Kelly said Jonas Gray is unique. The running back, who never received much playing time until this year, has been a revelation. The senior has 750 yards on 103 carries for an average of 7.1 yards per carry.

"I can't remember in my 21 years coaching a guy that has made that significant of an impact on a football team," Kelly said. "I've had some senior linemen step up and play a big role but he's an actual playmaker for us. He's the guy who decided to do this. He could've chosen not to do it. It's a great story."