Dealing with an ailing shoulder injury, Michigan State quarterback Brian Lewerke hasn’t started a game since the Spartans’ home loss to Ohio State on Nov. 10 and his status for the Redbox Bowl against Oregon has been in question.

Although coach Mark Dantonio said Lewerke’s shoulder was “improving” a few weeks back, it’s still unsure whether the junior will play against the Ducks when MSU takes the field on Dec. 31.

“I think those are things that he has to answer because I think it’s the type of injury where he has to feel comfortable throwing,” Dantonio said back on Dec. 2, per 247Sports. “I do think it’s improved … it’s just a matter of how well is he throwing. That would be my take on it. We’ll make those decisions way later. I haven’t seen him this past week.”

Lewerke was largely ineffective in his four appearances following the injury, going 27-for-73 (36.9 percent) with 281 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions.

Redshirt freshman Rocky Lombardi started Michigan State’s win over Purdue and the final two games of the regular season, a road loss to Nebraska and a home win over Rutgers. He would get the nod in the event Lewerke is unable to play.