Durant Needs Surgery For Thumb
October 20, 2002

Slinger Durant Fractured thumb in 3rd quarter

Chapel Hill__  Remember that old joke  -  "Cheer up.  Things could be worse.  So we cheered up, and sure nuf' things got worse!"

But this is not a joking matter.  Today it was announced that Darian had fractured his thumb in the 3rd quarter against Virginia yesterday.  He is scheduled for surgery tomorrow and will be out for 6 weeks, according to the head football trainer.

"We will miss Darian," said John Bunting.  "I'm sure he will do everything he can to help out C.J. as he fills in for him."

"C.J. takes reps every day with the first unit, so we'll run a very similar package," Bunting said.  "It's just another challenge for Coach Gary Tranquill, who is obviously very disappointed that Darian's out.  C.J. Stephens has got to play, and I think he can play.  And we're going to find out how well he can play real soon.  We're all going to rally around him."

"(Darian) had a phenomenal day yesterday," Bunting said.  Here's a look at the first half team stats.  He has been leading the ACC in passing and total yards, and was on pace yesterday to set more records.

Carolina Virginia  Rushing yards 87 87  Passing yards 179 40  Total yards 266 127  Turnovers 1 2  Penalties 3 / 29 3 / 16  Time of possession 15:25 14:35  Score 21 0  Durant   168 total yards, 3 TDs

Here's to a speedy recovery for Darian.  We'll miss the excitement you brought to the game, Slinger!

And now we all need to send some good vibes to C.J. Stephens.  He's patiently waited for his turn at the helm.  It's unfortunate that his opportunity came at the expense of an injury.  But all Carolina fans should rally behind him and show support.

Next week at Wake Forest when C.J. takes the field, all Carolina fans in attendance should start a chant... C...  J..., C...  J..., C...  J....

Go Heels!

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