Illini tackle Williams out for the season

Basketblog

Illini follow NCAA tournament from afar

This isn't where the Illinois players want to be, playing in the NIT. It was NCAA tournament-or-bust for these guys. Truth is, with their spring break starting today, some of them would rather be on a beach somewhere than preparing for Kent State's visit Monday. That's just the way it is.

Recent "Basketblog" entries

Stony Brook coach talks NIT, Illinois

Tisdale's leg "OK" for Buckeyes matchup

By Bob Asmussen

Wednesday, August 13, 2008 10:56 AM CDT

E-mail Story Printer-friendly
Comments

Illinois defensive tackle Sirod Williams has a torn ACL in his right knee and will miss the 2008 season.
The injury happened during Saturday's evening practice at Camp Rantoul. An MRI was done Monday and the Illinois coaches were hoping it wasn't a serious injury. They got the news Tuesday night.
"It is unfortunate," Illinois coach Ron Zook said after this morning's practice. "The fortunate thing is that he does have a redshirt year, so we'll have him one more year.
"Sirod is such a great guy and a leader. He's taking it well. He understands that we'll get it fixed and he'll play one more year."
Williams was working with the first-team defense at the time of the injury and was expected to start the opener against Missouri. With Williams out, sophomore Josh Brent and others will compete for the job.
"We're working a lot of guys at multiple positions," Zook said. "The defensive line is the strength of our football team."
Williams won't have surgery immediately, Zook said, while doctors wait for the swelling to subside.