Cam Rising injury update: How long is the Utah QB out for? 

Cam Rising's injury is one of the biggest topics of discussion as another weekend of Pac-12 football is upon us. No. 10 Utah Utes are preparing to face No. 19 Oregon State Beavers later today in a game that can potentially sway the championship aspirations of both teams.

The Utes are unbeaten in four games this season, despite having to play without their star quarterback. In Rising's place, Nate Johnson has been holding down the fort. Judging from the Utes' flawless record this season, he hasn't been doing a bad job.

But as the matchups become more difficult in the Pac-12, Kyle Whittingham will need the trusted hands of his star quarterback to drive the offense.

The Utah head coach has largely kept his cards close to the chest concerning Rising's return from injury. ESPN's Porter Larsen reported that Rising would not start against the Beavers, which means the responsibility will fall on Johnson's shoulders again to lead the Utes offense and go head-to-head with Oregon's DJ Uiagalelei.

Utah has a bye before facing the Cal Bears on Oct. 14. Rising is likely to be passed fit to return for that game.

What happened to Cam Rising?

Rising sustained an ACL injury during the Rose Bowl in January. The injury usually takes between six to nine months to recover from.

Rising was expected to return for the first game of the season, but the quarterback has not been passed fit despite returning to practice.

Is Cam Rising playing today?

As mentioned earlier, the game against the Bears is a realistic target for Rising's return. Hence, his availability for a crucial matchup against Oregon is near to impossible.

According to Whittingham, Rising has been showing positive signs in training and looks ready to go. However, he still awaits the doctors' clearance.

“He practices as if he was playing the game and ready to roll," Whittingham said. "But until the doctor says it's go time, we'll keep proceeding as we have.”

The senior quarterback is in his last lap of college football and is expected to proceed to the NFL Draft next year. His draft stock will depend on how much and how well he plays this season.