COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says running back Marcus Lattimore told him he will be back on the field for the Gamecocks.
Spurrier spoke to a crowd of more than 1,000 players, students and fans who turned out Monday to wish Lattimore a speedy recovery and a happy 21st birthday.
Lattimore dislocated his right knee and severely damaged several ligaments in a horrific injury Saturday against Tennessee.
Spurrier says Lattimore sent him a text saying he isn't done playing for South Carolina. Doctors have told the junior his injury could take more than a year of recovery, keeping him off the field until the 2014 season.
Lattimore watched the rally over the Internet.
He rushed for 662 yards this season and his 41 career touchdowns are a school record.
Gov. Nikki Haley issues “Marcus Lattimore Day” proclamation
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Nikki Haley today issued a gubernatorial proclamation designating Monday, October 29, 2012, as “Marcus Lattimore Day” throughout the state of South Carolina. Lattimore, who has been widely recognized not only as one of the country’s best college football players but also as an outstanding leader, suffered a season-ending knee injury on Saturday during a game against the University of Tennessee.
Gov. Haley said, “Michael and I ask every South Carolinian to join our family as we lift up in prayer Marcus Lattimore and his mother Yolanda Smith during this challenging time. He has been more than just a Carolina football player – he is a great role model for our state.”
