Abu Wilson, Utah State's projected starter at running back, will be out for the season but likely able to return for spring ball in 1994 following surgery Friday for a torn anterior cruciate ligament in a knee. Wilson was injured in an "inside drill" Thursday evening when another player dove into him while his cleats were planted.
Aggie coach Charlie Weatherbie said Friday night that doctors removed a piece of Wilson's patellar tendon and grafted it in place of the anterior cruciate.Wilson, who set a school record for yards gained by a freshman last year with 795, started most of last season after coming back from a wrist injury that kept him out the first four games.
"You hate to lose one like that," says Weatherbie. "He's the only one who had real experience, other than Tai Gordon." Gordon started as a freshman in Wilson's stead last year. "It's a tough loss," Weatherbie said.
Sophomore James Dye, a defensive back last year but runner in high school, moves up to No. 1 on the depth chart after a strong spring and summer. Gordon and Prop. 48 freshman Profail Grier are listed as Nos. 2-3, and Weatherbie guesses the Aggies will use at least three backs generously.
Weatherbie said he felt bad for Wilson, who redshirted his first season and will now have to sit another year.