The situation in Michigan with the “probable mild concussion” of quarterback Shane Morris has brought head injuries back into the public consciousness. There was clearly a breakdown on the Wolverines’ sideline Saturday and, as a result, within the athletic department the last few days.
At Florida State, Seminoles coach Jimbo Fisher addressed how the nation’s top-ranked team deals with in-game concussions. Defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. and running back Mario Pender missed Saturday’s game with concussions, and freshman Trey Marshall left the game with a concussion.
“If there’s anything it comes to me and then it’s up to [doctors] and they make a decision when a guy goes back in. It has nothing to do with me,” Fisher said. “We get [the player] directly to them and they come to me and say ‘It’s OK’ or ‘There’s no chance.’
“… That’s doctors. It has nothing to do with me, and I don’t want that responsibility. There’s no game or no situation that’s worth it, if a coach knows [of a concussed player]. I don’t know the circumstances [at Michigan]. A doctor, that’s his expertise. … I want to have the best for these guys and that’s an expert.”
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said the Tigers have a “monstrous medical staff. We have doctors for doctors.”
While the last few days in Michigan have not put the school or athletic department in a positive light, hopefully this leads to more knowledge and a better response for the future.
Here are a few more ACC links:
Miami receiver Stacy Coley had a big drop early in the Duke game, but it did not come back to hurt the Canes. Still, the Miami offense needs Coley to play like he did as a freshman.
Clemson did not have to face Jameis Winston this season as the FSU quarterback was suspended for the contest. But Swinney will face Jacoby Brissett, who stood toe to toe with Winston last weekend and who reminds Swinney of the reigning Heisman Trophy winner.
North Carolina had Eric Ebron at tight end last season, and Frank Beamer needed to game plan for him. So he called upon Bucky Hodges, the scout team quarterback. A year later, Hodges will play tight end against the Tar Heels.
Louisville is concerned with containing Syracuse's quarterback, and the Cardinals are dealing with quarterback problems of their own.
Syracuse has "decided to part ways" with freshman Naesean Howard.