Illinois Fighting Illini headcoach Lovie Smith confirmed that his leading wide receiver Malik Turner has been placed in the concussion protocol for the upcoming week.
Also, Smith said on his radio show tonight that Malik Turner suffered concussion Saturday vs. Minnesota, is undergoing concussion protocol
— Matt Daniels (@mdaniels_NG) November 1, 2016
The news doesn’t come as a surprise as Turner was taken off the field on a stretcher after a hit by Minnesota Golden Gopher safety Duke McGhee. Turner was taken to the hospital and was moving all of his extremities. Meanwhile, McGhee was ejected from the game.
The news is both a big hit for the team and for Turner, who now has doubts as to whether or not he will be able to play again this season. Turner is currently the Illini’s leading target and they will struggle to establish the passing game with him on the sideline against Michigan State this weekend.
The Fighting Illini are currently 2-6 and are headed nowhere this season, so it is likely best to play it safe and have Turner sit out the rest of the season if there is even the slightest concern for his health.