This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The Utes may be without one of their top pass-rushing threats when they open 2014 play.
Senior linebacker Jacoby Hale tore his ACL and MCL at Thursday's practice and will undergo surgery, said Utah head coach Kyle Whittingham after practice Saturday.
Whittingham said he's seen guys come back as quickly as four months, but seven is more the norm. If Hale can't return, the team may apply for a hardship waiver.
Hale's injury came on a seemingly harmless play at Spence Eccles Field House. He pivoted to make a play on a left-sideline throw and fell to the turf, writhing in pain.
The exercise sport science major from Beaumont, Texas, recorded 6.5 sacks in nine games last season. He also suffered a season-ending ankle injury in 2012.
— Matthew Piper
Twitter: @matthew_piper