UCLA Bruins running back Paul Perkins reportedly has no ligament damage after injuring his left knee against California on Thursday, according to John Taylor of NBC Sports.
The Bruins also lost leading tackler Isaako Savaiinaea in the second half after he was carted off with an apparent leg injury. "Not good. They're not good," said head coach Jim Mora, via NBC Sports. The status of Savaiinaea is unknown at this time, but the Bruins are likely relieved they won't lose their star running back for the season.
Perkins' injury is being reported as a bone bruise, and he "should return to action soon," according to Bruin Report Online. The junior running back is having a huge season and has rushed for 752 yards and scored eight touchdowns. Perkins is averaging six yards per carry and had 73 yards on 11 carries before being injured in the first half.
Perkins has put himself in the Heisman discussion this season, and the Bruins will probably need their star running back if they want to compete for a Pac-12 title. The Bruins already lost linebacker Myles Jack for the season, and losing Perkins and Savaiinaea could have been a devastating blow. Luckily for Bruins fans it looks like Perkins will return this season, but no timetable has been set for his return.
