Cal running back Carter Vargas and defensive lineman Nate Burrell are both listed as doubtful for Friday's game against Clemson in Berkeley. The teams released their first injury updates Wednesday.
Vargas started Cal's opener against UCLA and left after gaining 14 yards on four carries and making two receptions for 6 yards. He is usually the Bears' second running back behind Adam Mohammed, contributes on kickoff returns and can line up as a slot receiver. The injury could keep Vargas out for a third consecutive game.
Mohammed has averaged 20 carries through Cal's first three games and has 285 rushing yards. If Vargas remains sidelined, Ashten Emory, Anthony League and Carson Perry-Smith are expected to be the other running backs behind Mohammed.
Burrell started Cal's first two games as either an interior tackle or defensive end but did not play against Wagner. He has eight tackles this season, along with one of Cal's five sacks and two quarterback hurries. Derek Wilkins or Emmanuel Okoye could replace him in the starting lineup, depending on Cal's defensive setup.
Cal offensive tackle Jimothy Lewis Jr. is not listed as injured after starting the first two games. It is not yet clear whether Lewis or Michael Klisiewicz, who started against Wagner, will open at tackle.
Clemson cornerback Corian Gipson and defensive tackle Devarrick Woods are listed as questionable. Gipson has started all three games and has nine tackles and one quarterback hurry, while Woods has appeared in every game and has three tackles, including half a tackle for loss.
