news-record.com

WINSTON-SALEM -- When Riley Skinner realized he wasn't thinking about his throwing shoulder Monday night, he decided ignorance was bliss.

Wake Forest's quarterback, who has missed the past two games because of a mild separation of the right shoulder, threw without pain and hopes to play Saturday when the Demon Deacons host Maryland. Coach Jim Grobe indicated he won't make a final decision about his starting quarterback for a couple of days.

"A lot better than I thought," Skinner said after the light, no-pads workout. "I was still a little timid with some of my throws. I was surprised; the ball carried farther than I thought."

Skinner's rehabilitation from the injury, suffered in the season opener at Boston College, has consisted of ultrasound and weight work. Coaches and trainers have been cautious, fearing the ailment could be aggravated.

"I've gained strength the past two weeks, and it's up to them what they want to do," Skinner said. "If I'm 100 percent, hopefully I'm going to play Saturday. If not, Brett Hodges can win a lot of games for us."

Hodges has relieved Skinner since the injury. Grobe said he wouldn't rule out the possibility of using Skinner if Skinner isn't fully healthy. Hodges went 12-for-24 with two interceptions, one of which was especially costly, against Nebraska in his first start. The Deacons threw only 12 passes three days ago in a 21-10 victory over Army.

Hodges is developing but isn't as polished as Skinner, the 2006 ACC rookie of the year. Through three games, the Deacs have gotten five touchdowns from their offense, three from the defense and one off a punt return.

"I thought (Skinner) threw the ball well tonight," Grobe said, "but we'll see. We'll know a little more at the end of the week."

Contact Rob Daniels at 373-7028 or rdaniels @news-record.com