The UTEP Miners were locked in a tight battle on Tuesday night with the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs. However, nearing the end of the third quarter, a fire was lit under the team when starting QB Skyler Locklear was violently knocked out of the game by a vicious hit.
The latest injury updates from Ruston don’t appear too promising for Locklear.
What Happened to Skyler Locklear?
On a 2nd & 9 attempt from their own 21-yard line, Locklear dropped back to pass from the shotgun. When pressure came in from both edges, Locklear scrambled up the middle to avoid would-be tacklers.
Upon evading the rushers and pushing through the middle of the pocket, Locklear emerged and targeted his receiver over the middle of the field from his own 15-yard line. However, Louisiana Tech LB Zach Zimos was patrolling the middle and came downfield hard against Locklear.
A violent collision occurred immediately following Locklear’s release and he landed straight back on his head, bouncing off the turf in a violent and scary moment.
This hit on UTEP’s Skyler Locklear will be the most egregious targeting you’ll see. Louisiana Tech guy might as well have jogged off the field, no need to wait for review pic.twitter.com/oFN8as4jvv
— Maybe: Cole (@IAlwysDrinkBeer) October 23, 2024
The pass was completed to Kam Thomas for a 15-yard gain, Zimos was ejected for targeting, and 15 more yards were added due to the penalty. But the Miners watched as Locklar lay on the ground, visibly shaken up from all angles.
Locklear was able to get up on his own power and walk, with help, back to the sidelines.
At the time of his injury, Locklear had completed 7-of-11 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown. He had also run the ball five times for nine yards and had the Miners tied with Louisiana Tech at 7 points a piece.
JP Pickles entered the lineup for Locklear and subsequently took UTEP down the field for the go-ahead field goal, a 44-yard kick from Buzz Flabiano.
The initial viewing and word from the sidelines seemed like it was pointing toward a concussion for Locklear, but College Football Network will stay tuned into the program for further updates as they are released.
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