James Conner had a great 2014 campaign, winning the ACC’s offense player of the year award after rushing for 1,765 yards and 26 touchdowns. Pittsburgh coach Pat Narduzzi announced on Monday that Conner would miss the remainder of the season with a torn MCL.
“Even with all of his success last year, James attacked his preparation for this season like he was fighting to earn a starting spot,” Coach Narduzzi said in a statement. “He is a tremendous competitor and teammate. After he was injured on Saturday, James was constantly in the ear of his teammates, encouraging them and coaching them on the sideline. Our entire program shares his disappointment, but we will also be behind him every step of the way in his recovery.”
The junior ran the ball eight times for 77 yards and two touchdowns in Pittsburgh win over Youngstown State. He left he game in the second quarter with an apparent knee injury.
Backup running back Chris James was also injured in the game and freshman Quadree Ollison took on the load for the rest of the game. Ollison finished the game with 207 yards rushing on 16 cashiers and a touchdown.
