Sutton Smith is a key part of the run game for the Memphis Tigers. Last season, he recorded 305 yards and scored two touchdowns.
The year 2024 was set to be his year and he was likely to be the main running back in the Tigers team. However, this is not the case due to an injury he obtained during the season's opening game.
What happened to Sutton Smith?
The injury occurred during the Tigers' game with the North Alabama Jaguars. After a carry in the first quarter of the game, Smith struggled to get up from the ground. He would eventually walk off the field and into the injury tent.
He would emerge on crutches later in the game, which was confirmed as an injury to his right knee.
Sutton Smith Injury update
Memphis coach Ryan Silverfield said after the game:
"He did get hurt. It doesn't look great. Our entire program will keep him in our thoughts and prayers, and hopefully he's OK more than anything. And we wish him a speedy recovery."
There has been no update on his status since Silverfield's update. However, he will miss the Tigers' next game against the Troy Trojans, even though he was featured in the team's depth chart in the build-up to this game.
When will Sutton Smith return?
It is not currently stated how long Sutton Smith will be out for. However, he will likely be out for a few weeks, and if he does return, it will be during the last few weeks of the season.
Who will replace Sutton Smith at Memphis?
With Smith out, the Tigers have lost a key running back. Mario Anderson replaces him. This is Anderson's first year with the Tigers, having transferred from the South Carolina Gamecocks in the offseason.
Last season, Anderson recorded 707 yards for the Gamecocks, scoring three touchdowns. He scored two touchdowns and recorded 46 yards in Week 1 this season.
Additionally, the Memphis Tigers have Greg Desrosiers and Brandon Thomas on the roster and are both likely to be used alongside Anderson in the Tigers offense.
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