Miami head coach Al Golden announced today that sophomore outside linebacker Darrion Owens will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury suffered in Friday’s 44-20 win against Florida Atlantic.
Owens’ loss is a big blow to the Miami defense as they play host to Nebraska this upcoming Saturday.
After losing running back Gus Edwards in the preseason, Owens’ injury is a significant loss for the ‘Canes and a defense that struggled at times against Florida Atlantic; letting the Owls tie the game 20 all in the third. Several key turnovers by Florida Atlantic in their own territory allowed the Hurricanes to take control of the game.
Miami fans need not to worry, as the ‘Canes have confidence in Owens’ backup, senior Tyriq McCord.
According to the Miami Sun-Sentinel, middle linebacker Raphael Kirby stated in reference to Owens’ injury that the Miami linebacker corps have a “next man up mentality,” and McCord “is a guy that since he’s been here has made plays…he and Darrion are neck and neck” in terms of skill and physicality, which will be missed with Owens sidelined.
Juwon Young returns to add some depth after missing the first two games with a foot sprain, and Coach Golden expects Trent Harris and Mike Smith to rotate at the weak side linebacker position.
The Associated Press reports that Owens will have surgery later this week.
Coach Golden would not specify on the extent of Owens injury, but Owens will be eligible for a medical redshirt having played last season as a true freshman and only two games of the 2015 season.
The good news is that wide receivers Stacy Coley and Braxon Berrios who were sidelined against FAU with a hamstring and knee injury respectively. Perfect timing as Miami will now have to lean more on its offense with the loss of Owens.
