TCU's head coach Gary Patterson revealed bad news for the Horned Frogs on Tuesday, saying that linebacker Sammy Douglas is done for the year and that senior defensive end James McFarland could be out for the season too, according to TCU Magazine.
Losing Douglas was a blow for the Horned Frogs especially because they are so young at linebacker. Douglas was the only upperclassman at the position, and his leadership will likely be missed. Losing a player like Douglas is tough enough, but then finding out McFarland could be out too, is extremely deflating to their team.
McFarland didn't only bring leadership but talent too. In 13 games last season for TCU McFarland lead the team with seven sacks, and he also had 29 solo tackles. McFarland could miss the remainder of the season due to a foot injury, and combining that with Douglas' injury could derail TCU's playoff chances.
The Horned Frogs will need big play from their underclassmen if they wish to continue success this season. The offense still has highly-talented quarterback Trevone Boykin, but he will need some defense to get to the goal of a National Championship. TCU went 14-1 last season and had a legitimate argument to make the playoffs.
The Horned Frogs play Stephen F. Austin this Saturday, and will surely miss their top defensive end. Patterson and TCU fans are likely hoping for a fast recovery for McFarland and that he only misses a few games.
