Source: Vernon Adams Jr. dealing with index finger injury

Oregonquarterback Vernon Adams Jr., who was knocked out of last week's season opener after taking a hard hit in the fourth quarter, also is dealing with an injured index finger on his throwing hand, a source told ESPN.

Adams has been icing his hand, according to the source, and intends to play Saturday in the seventh-ranked Ducks' showdown with No. 5 Michigan State.

The source told ESPN that Adams suffered the finger injury in Oregon's season-opening victory against Eastern Washington.

Adams repeatedly has stated that he expects to play Saturday night in East Lansing despite the scary hit that ended his debut with the Ducks. His availability is important for Oregon, which beat Michigan State in Eugene last season.

Adams passed for 246 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 94 yards on 14 carries in Oregon's 61-42 victory last weekend.