I've never had a torn ACL. I strained it one time, but it got better with a cast. So, I can't imagine what it feels like to be Miami Thomas, who is going on ACL surgery No. 2.

For Thomas, it will complete the bionic circuit. He will have had both knees and both shoulders worked on. That's a lot of hospital and rehab time for a guy who turned 20 in May.

Injuries are a part of football. Always have been. Always will be. Thomas has had more than his share.

He will come back, probably in a hurry. Don't be surprised if he participates in the spring, with the timing just about right to recover. The coaches will be careful with him, trying as best they can to get him to the 2010 season.

In 2007, Thomas looked like he was going to be a star, the next Vontae Davis. Illinois doesn't beat Ohio State without him. Nothing much good has happened since.

His career is far from over. He worked hard to get back before and will do it again.

And, with the help of the NCAA, he might still be playing in 2012. He'll need to be granted a sixth year of eligibility, but his case is strong.

Thomas has been a treat to cover in his time at Illlinois. Here's hoping he gets back on the field soon. And that the bionics hold up.

To read Day 18, click here

To read Day 19, click here.

To read Day 20, click here.

To read Day 21, click here

To read Day 22, click here.

To read Day 23, click here

To read Day 24, click here

To read Day 25, click here

To read Day 26, click here.

To read Day 27, click here.

To read Day 28, click here

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