The Michigan Wolverines battled the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday in The Game. Late in the third quarter, Wolverines guard Zak Zinter suffered an apparent leg injury.
We have the latest news on Zinter’s status, including what it would mean for Michigan if they advance to the Big Ten Championship.
Zak Zinter Injury Update
Zinter, the star right guard for Michigan’s fantastic offensive line, was rolled up on a run play.
The injury appeared significant, with Fox refusing to show replays of what happened. Players from both sidelines flooded the field in support of Zinter as he was carted off the field in what appeared to be an air cast.
We also saw J.J. McCarthy’s parents on the field, hugging Zinter before he departed the field on a cart.
My heart hurts for Zak Zinter pic.twitter.com/RSjLULc4bP
— Cam Mellor (@CamMellor) November 25, 2023
The 6’6″, 322-pound senior had been projected to be a Day 2 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft in Pro Football Network’s most recent 7-round mock. A two-time All-Big Ten selection and likely to earn his third distinction this year, Zinter is an undeniable presence for the Wolverines. He’s a key lynchpin in their devastating running attack.
If the Wolverines beat the Buckeyes and advance to play Iowa in the Big Ten Championship game next week, the offense is unlikely to be significantly affected. As great as Zinter is, Iowa doesn’t have the offensive firepower to beat Michigan.
However, Iowa does have the individual talent along the defensive line to keep Michigan’s offensive line working from the first play through the final whistle.
We would have loved to have seen Hawkeyes defensive tackle Yahya Black face off against Zinter. Instead, Trente Jones will likely play as he took Zinter’s spot during the game.
We’ll continue to update this article as more information is made available.