Carlos Hyde Injury: Updates on Ohio State RB's Knee Injury

The Ohio State football team received some bad news from trainers, as running back Carlos Hyde will not be returning for the remainder of the game against UCF.

According to coach Urban Meyer, the knee injury that forced the running back to be carted off the field is serious enough to keep him out for the rest of this highly contested game. Radio host at 97.1 the FAN Milan Jordan tweeted:

"

Urban Meyer tells Marty Bannister of the OSU Radio Network that the Buckeyes probably won't have Carlos Hyde the rest of the game.

— Milan Jordan (@milanjordan) September 8, 2012"

The Buckeyes seem to be in better control of the game with two touchdowns to open the third quarter, but the 17-10 halftime score leaves a lot to be desired from this proud program.

With this injury, the team loses a big option to keep the pressure off quarterback Braxton Miller. Hyde is the leading returning running back from last season with 566 yards and six touchdowns. In the opening-day win over Miami (Ohio), Hyde rushed for 82 yards and two touchdowns.

If Hyde is out for any duration, the do-it-all quarterback will have to do even more. Miller already rushed for 161 yards last week, but he will be counted on to make up for the loss of the running back when the tougher games against Big Ten teams begin.

Fortunately, Ohio State has a number of talented options to replace the junior. Freshman Bri'onte Dunn will likely get the first crack at the job, with Rod Smith also in the mix. In addition, senior fullback Zach Boren will also be asked to contribute with carries.

Regardless of who steps up, Hyde will be difficult to replace. The team better hope this injury does not keep him out for too long.

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