Charles Walker Injury: Updates on Oklahoma DT's Concussion and Return

Oklahoma will be without star defensive tackle Charles Walker against Clemson in Thursday's College Football Playoff semifinal due to a concussion. 

According to Mark Schlabach of ESPN, Walker suffered the injury during practice Monday, and his status for a potential championship game if the Sooners win Thursday is uncertain at this point. 

Continue for updates. 

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Impact of Walker's Absence

Thursday, Dec. 31

Clemson has one of the nation's best offenses, averaging 35.7 points per game coming into the Orange Bowl. Quarterback Deshaun Watson is one of the most dynamic playmakers in the nation, racking up 4,404 total yards with 41 total touchdowns. 

Walker has been one of Oklahoma's best all-around defensive players this season. The sophomore star is tied for second on the Sooners with 10 tackles for loss and tied for third with six sacks. 

In addition to Walker's ability to get in the backfield, Pro Football Focus noted how essential his presence is to defending the run:

Walker's absence not only opens the door for Watson to create plays with his legs, but Clemson star running back Wayne Gallman should have a lot more room to roam in the trenches. 

Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops does have a talented defensive line, with junior Matt Dimon likely to play a bigger role with Walker out, but losing that big body in the middle will likely force more blitzing schemes to contain Watson and Gallman in the backfield.