Tez Johnson Injured Early in Oregon's Showdown vs. Michigan

The Badgers' running back left the game with a leg injury in the first quarter.

Oregon's hopes of an upset over Michigan took a hit early Saturday when running back Tez Johnson left the game with an injury. Johnson, who entered the game as the Ducks' leading rusher, suffered a leg injury in the first quarter and did not return.

The extent of Johnson's injury is not yet known. Oregon coach Dan Lanning said after the game that Johnson would be evaluated further on Sunday.

Johnson's injury is a big loss for an Oregon offense that has struggled to run the ball consistently this season. The Ducks are now without their top two running backs, as CJ Verdell is also out with an injury.

Oregon will now turn to true freshman Byron Cardwell to lead its running game.

Cardwell, a four-star recruit from Las Vegas, has played sparingly this season but showed some promise in Oregon's win over Fresno State last week. He carried the ball 10 times for 45 yards and a touchdown.

Cardwell will be facing a tough test against a Michigan defense that is ranked among the best in the country. The Wolverines have allowed just 80.3 rushing yards per game this season.

Despite the injuries, Oregon still has a chance to upset Michigan. The Ducks have a talented offense led by quarterback Bo Nix, and they will be playing at home.

But Oregon will need to find a way to run the ball effectively if it wants to beat Michigan. Cardwell will be the key to the Ducks' success on the ground.

Conclusion

Tez Johnson's injury is a big loss for Oregon, but the Ducks still have a chance to upset Michigan. Byron Cardwell will be the key to the Ducks' success on the ground, and he will be facing a tough test against a Michigan defense that is ranked among the best in the country.