Idaho has used a running back by committee this season.

That “committee” could get bigger this week, if redshirt freshman Aundre Carter is able to return, after missing the last two games due to injury.

That would give the Vandals (3-5, 1-3 Big Sky) a three-back rotation heading into Saturday’s game vs. Cal Poly (2-6, 1-4) at the Kibbie Dome.

Idaho had a bye last week, after thumping Idaho State 45-21 on Oct. 19 at the Dome.

“It’d be good if we can have all three and keep ’em fresh,” Idaho coach Paul Petrino said earlier this week, in his weekly meeting with area media.

Despite being out of late, Carter is still Idaho’s leading rusher with 378 yards.

True freshman Nick Romano, who has played in all eight games, has 324, including a 132-yard effort at Northern Colorado.

Sophomore Roshaun Johnson, who has been limited to four games, has 239 yards.

Junior Dylan Thigpen, who missed last season after suffering a knee injury during spring practice, has gotten a lot of touches lately and has 167 yards, including 97 on 17 carries vs. ISU.

At quarterback, Petrino said all three QBs might be available this week. Mason Petrino, who started the first seven games, missed the ISU game with an injury. Colton Richardson started vs. the Bengals, but left for a few plays with a leg injury.

“If Colton’s available, he’ll probably start out first,” Paul Petrino said. “And then we’ll go from there.”

Petrino said the bye week was good for Cade Coffey, the punter/kicker from Lakeland High who has been at less than 100 percent in recent weeks.

“I think he’s feeling a lot better,” Petrino said. “It was good for him to have that break ... he kicked the ball really well last week (in practice).”

One player who won’t be back is linebacker Charles Akanno, who suffered an ankle injury vs. ISU. Petrino said Akanno is out for the season.