UCLA is about to be without their leading tackler when they face Illinois in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl on Saturday.
According to the LA Times, UCLA linebacker Patrick Larimore had surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb two weeks ago and walked into practice Tuesday with a cast on his right hand. Larimore first injured the thumb during practice in August.
Larimore leads the Bruins with 80 tackles and leaves the Bruins barren at middle linebacker. Backup Isaiah Bowens is already academically ineligible for the game which leaves Jordan Zumwalt to start in Larimore's place.
At least the Bruins aren't playing a powerhouse team, otherwise this game would be destined for failure. But luckily, the Fighting Illini aren't oozing with NFL talent. UCLA should be in this one from start to finish.
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