Mike Svetina Breaks Foot, Out 8-10 Weeks

Junior linebacker Mike Svetina will miss significant time for the upcoming season.

It was revealed Thursday evening that Svetina has a broken 5th metatarsal in his left foot that will keep him out until mid-to-late October. The injury happened during Tuesday night's practice and surgery was performed Wednesday.

Svetina played in all twelve games (starting in 11) of 2013 at the STAR* position. Svetina was not projected to be part of the 2014 starting defensive roster, but he is a versatile player that would be one of the first on the field when a replacement is needed. Being able to play STAR or either of the linebacker positions would give the defense some depth, which is something that this team can't really afford to lose.

The linebacker spot currently under competition will likely go to sophomore T.J. Neal. Coach Beckman has also stated that B.J. Bello has begun to practice as a linebacker. He was previously working as a STAR, so really it's not that big of a change. It's more of a precaution for the linebacker

<em>* - STAR is a hybrid between safety and linebacker.</em>

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