Pitt RB James Conner out for season with knee injury
It turns out the injury to Pitt running back James Conner was more serious than initially thought.
Panthers head coach Pat Narduzzi said after Saturday’s win over Youngstown State that Conner was “fine.” However, Narduzzi announced Monday that Conner will miss the season due to a torn MCL in his right knee.
The injury, which occurred during the second quarter, will require surgery.
“Even with all of his success last year, James attacked his preparation for this season like he was fighting to earn a starting spot,” Narduzzi said. “He is a tremendous competitor and teammate. After he was injured on Saturday, James was constantly in the ear of his teammates, encouraging them and coaching them on the sideline. Our entire program shares his disappointment but we will also be behind him every step of the way in his recovery.”
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Conner rushed for 1,765 yards and 26 touchdowns in 2014 and won the ACC Player of the Year award. The 6-foot-2, 240-pound junior rushed eight times for 77 yards and two touchdowns on Saturday before injuring the knee.
“I greatly appreciate everyone’s support and well wishes,” Conner said. “This is a temporary setback and I’m going to work even harder to bounce back. Even though I won’t be able to play this season, I’m going to be right beside my teammates and help them every way I can to have a great season.”
With Conner out, Pitt turned to redshirt freshman Qadree Ollison and he responded with 207 yards and a touchdown in the 45-37 win – his first career collegiate game.
Coming off Saturday’s win, the Panthers will face Akron on the road Saturday evening.
For more Pittsburgh news, visit Panther-lair.com.
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Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
