Michigan football hopes star running back Jordan Marshall can play in next week’s Big Ten game against Iowa. He left Saturday’s win over UTEP with an injury.

After Michigan’s 52-17 win, head coach Kyle Whittingham gave an unclear update on Marshall. Whittingham told the Detroit Free Press that Marshall left the game with a “nagging” injury. This issue has bothered him since Week 2.

“Jordan exited the game with a little nagging thing that was actually residual from last week, last game,” Whittingham said. “And so we hope to have him ready to roll next week.”

Marshall was already dealing with the injury when he started Saturday’s game. He still made an impact before leaving. The junior running back had 12 carries for 59 yards and a touchdown. His effort helped Michigan’s rushing attack despite a tough first half offensively.

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There is still some uncertainty about whether Marshall will play against Iowa. Whittingham did not give a specific diagnosis or promise that Marshall will play. He only said he hopes the running back will be ready.

Marshall is still a key part of Michigan’s offense. Earlier this season, Whittingham called him the team’s lead running back and said they needed to help him get into a better rhythm.

If Marshall can’t play against Iowa, Michigan may turn to Savion Hiter. Whittingham praised both running backs after Saturday’s win, which gives the Wolverines confidence in their depth.

The Wolverines will spend this week closely monitoring Marshall’s recovery before hosting Iowa in an important early-season Big Ten game under the lights.