UNC's Houston might return against Virginia Tech

It's possible that running back Ryan Houston might play against Virginia Tech on Saturday, UNC coach Butch Davis said today.

Houston, the team's leading rusher in 2009, has not played this season, missing the first five games because of the NCAA investigation. Houston had planned to redshirt the season before starter Johnny White was injured against Florida State last Saturday.

White broke his right collarbone and will miss the final three games of the regular season. UNC, at 3-2 in the ACC, can still win the Coastal Division but must beat Virginia Tech, 5-0 in the ACC, on Saturday.

Davis said Houston told him he would have played against FSU if he had made the trip to Tallahassee. White and running back Shaun Draughn (ankle) did not finish the 37-35 win for the Heels.

Sophomore Hunter Furr ran three times for 27 yards on the final drive. Davis said Furr, who had been the scout team running back, will play a significant role against the Hokies. Draughn is listed as the starter but his injury status is unknown.

Houston ran for 713 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

-- J.P. Giglio