Michigan RB Drake Johnson Tears ACL

For the second time in his career, Michigan running back Drake Johnson suffered a torn ACL in the Wolverines’ 42-21 loss to Ohio State last Saturday.

Johnson went down with the injury after his second touchdown of the day against the Buckeyes. He finished the game with 15 rushes for 75 yards and two scores.

The sophomore finishes the season with 60 carries for 361 yards and four touchdowns.

https://twitter.com/DRAKEington/status/539438220321120259

Johnson first tore his ACL in Michigan’s 2013 season opener against Central Michigan on special teams. This season, Johnson appeared in all 12 games and was the featured back after teammate Derrick Green broke his clavicle earlier in the season.

The Michigan native had a breakout performance against the Indiana Hoosiers, rushing for 122 yards and two touchdowns. If his rehab goes well as expected, Johnson should be ready to go for the Wolverines’ 2015 season opener.

The unfortunate news puts an exclamation point on a very disappointing season for the Wolverines. Michigan finished their 2014 campaign with a 5-7 record and did not qualify for a bowl game appearance.

Head coach Brady Hoke will meet with interim athletic director Jim Hackett to discuss his future with the program.

Hoke took over Michigan in 2011 and has compiled a 31-20 record in four seasons. After a promising first year where the Wolverines won 11 games and the Sugar Bowl, Michigan has regressed under Hoke each season. The Wolverines endured their first losing season since 2009.

Many believe Hoke will be relieved of his duties as head coach. If that occurs, expect Michigan to make a phone call to San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh and LSU head coach Les Miles. Both have extensive ties to the program but it is unknown if either would have serious interest.

 

*Section Photo credit to Leon Halip, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Rick Osentoski, USA Today Sports. 

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