Virginia Tech’s running backs coach, Billy Hite, believes his top tailback, sophomore Ryan Williams, will play Saturday at North Carolina State. If that happens, and how much Williams would play, remain to be seen.

Williams missed last Saturday’s win at Boston College because of a right hamstring injury sustained the previous Saturday against East Carolina. Tech will release an update on his status in Thursday’s injury report.

But he seems to be making progress. He wore a blue jersey (limited contact) during tonight’s practice – the second consecutive day he was in blue. He did not practice at all last week, said junior Darren Evans, who combined with sophomore David Wilson to replace Williams at Boston College.

“I’ve seen him [running] in stride a little bit, but not full speed, not the full speed that I know him at,” Evans said. “He’s saying he’s getting better. I believe him that’s he’s getting better.

“I think there’s a chance [Williams will play], because he’s been looking pretty good. I’m not sure if he’s going to play. I’ll prepare the same way every time. He’s been doing a lot of periods [of practice]. He’s not taking any contact. That’s expected.”

Williams has decided to not speak with the media until he plays again.

twitter.com/darrylslater