Dugan Arnett’s KU football notebook

Patterson switch likely to continue

True freshman wide receiver Daymond Patterson picked a bad day to switch to cornerback, as his debut at the new position Saturday came in the Jayhawks’ worst defensive performance of the season.

But he did enough to be invited back.

KU coach Mark Mangino said Sunday that Patterson, who has caught 12 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver this season, will continue to work at the cornerback position this week and could remain on defense for the foreseeable future.

“I can’t tell you that it’s permanent, but it’s based out of necessity,” said Mangino. “And he’s responded very well.”

Blakesley, Johnson Jr. could return against KSU

Injured defensive tackles Caleb Blakesley and Richard Johnson Jr. could be ready to play Saturday, when Kansas looks to rebound against rival Kansas State.

Blakesley left the Oklahoma game due to an undisclosed injury and missed Saturday’s game against Texas Tech, although Mangino said that, barring any unforeseen setbacks, he will be on the field against Kansas State.

Johnson’s chances of returning this week, however, were a little less certain.

“His status is kind of unknown,” Mangino said. “He’s kind of day-to-day here. Will he play Saturday? I’d say its 50-50 at best as I sit here right now.”