After missing Penn State’s previous two losses, defensive end Sean Stanley may suit up this weekend against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Stanley is facing a misdemeanor marijuana charge that stemmed from a Sept. 27 search warrant. Police found evidence of someone toking the ganja at the residence of Stanley and cornerback Derrick Thomas.

Thomas remains suspended from the team and certainly won’t see the playing field this Saturday in Minnesota. But charges have yet to be filed against him.

Head coach Joe Paterno has avoided commenting on the legal situation of the sophomores.

Before their departure, Stanley and Thomas were key pieces to the Lions’ defense, which has been depleted by injuries. With the addition of the suspensions, the defense has resembled a piece of Swiss cheese most of the season.

In the off season, wide receiver Curtis Drake, along with basketball standout Taran Buie, were charged with disorderly conduct after a friendly scrap outside of the East College Avenue McDonalds.

Currently, defensive tackle Brandon Ware is also in the doghouse with coach Paterno due to academic issues. Ware has missed the last two games as well. His status for this weekend’s game is unclear.