The junior put up scoring numbers in Briles’ spread offense that most QBs would be proud of for a whole season.
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Baylor confirming this afternoon what we’ve feared since Saturday afternoon: Seth Russell’s season is finished.
For once Baylor actually needed Seth Russell during the fourth quarter, and it may have produced a serious injury.
The decision comes after Russell visited a specialist Monday who recommended surgery, which has a typical recovery period of about six months.
“Seth exemplifies the spirit and will of our football team, and through this our team will keep that spirit alive and well for him”, said head coach Art Briles in a statement.
The Bears will now turn to true freshman Jarrett Stidham to take over at QB, and former QB-turned-WR Chris Johnson will return to the quarterback position to back up Stidham. The Bears have an idle date this weekend that will help Stidham adjust to his new role.
Briles’ comments about Russell hint at the leadership and tone he set for the entire team.
In 28 pass attempts spread out over seven games, Stidham has 24 completions for 331 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions. He also ran for six scores in his first season starting for the NCAA’s top offense (686 total yards, 61 points a game).
Russell led the nation in passing efficiency, throwing for 2,104 yards and 29 touchdowns.
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Days before his injury, Russell was named national player of the week by the Walter Camp Foundation and had been listed as the No. 2 favorite for the Heisman.
