Baylor Bears Win but Lose Robert Griffin III

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Created on Saturday, 26 November 2011 23:26

Last Updated on Thursday, 16 May 2013 07:51

Written by Travis Pulver

After the Baylor Bears won big over Texas Tech Saturday night, the celebration was a little subdued. The team had just clinched their eighth win of the season, something they had not done since back in their Southwest Conference days in 1991. As joyous as the occasion is, their chances at winning No 9 and 10 had also taken a big hit.

Heisman hopeful Robert Griffin III took a hit to the head late in the first half and ended up having to leave the game. He did return after a one play on the sideline, scoring his second rushing touchdown of the day, but did not return in the second half.

Baylor head coach Art Briles later said he held Griffin out due to the possibility of a slight concussion, but completely expects that he’ll be ready for the regular season finale against the Texas Longhorns at home in the friendly confines of Floyd Casey Stadium.

It would not have been surprising had the Bears offense suffered without Griffin behind center, but it flourished instead. The team did not pass as much as they normally would have choosing to lean on 240 pound senior running back Terrance Ganaway instead. He did not disappoint turning in a 246 yard performance on 42 carries. Nick Florence stepped in at quarterback going 9-12 on the night for 151 yards and two touchdowns.

The question going forward will be whether Griffin actually did have a concussion and how the team handles it. If he did have a slight concussion, his chances of playing against Texas are good, but up in the air. It all depends on whether he has concussion-like symptoms or not.

Baylor also has to consider the possibility of him getting another one as well. He will likely not practice this week to ensure no further damage is done, but concussions can take a couple of weeks to completely recover from. With the way that the Texas defense has been playing (No 10 overall in the nation), the chances of his taking a hard hit or two is entirely possible.

If there is going to be any lingering or long-term effects from the hit Saturday, he’ll be showing symptoms. The next couple days will be the key. It would be surprising to hear since he appeared to be fine, and was seen talking and laughing on the sideline during the second half of the game.