The University of Michigan's athletic director says the football team's quarterback suffered a "mild" concussion during Saturday's game. That contradicts what head football coach Brady Hoke said Monday, when he denied Shane Morris had a head injury.
Hoke has been criticized for how he handled the injured player.
Shane Morris appeared disoriented after being tackled late in a game against Minnesota, but he remained in the game for another play – before being taken out. Morris even re-entered the game a few plays later.
Hoke said Morris was taken out of the game because of a high ankle sprain.
“We would never, ever, if we thought a guy had a concussion, keep him in a game," Hoke said during a press conference on Monday. "And never have.”
Hoke said that a medical statement was forthcoming that would clear the air about the situation. That document was finally released early Tuesday morning, written by athletic director Dave Brandon.
"As of Sunday, Shane was diagnosed with a probable, mild concussion, and a high ankle sprain. That probable concussion diagnosis was not at all clear on the field on Saturday or in the examination that was conducted post-game. Unfortunately, there was inadequate communication between our physicians and medical staff and Coach Hoke was not provided the updated diagnosis before making a public statement on Monday. This is another mistake that cannot occur again."
Brady Hoke defended his actions on Monday.
“I think that there should be some criticism," Hoke said. You know when we talk about the performance, and that’s me, and coaching. I understand that. But when your integrity and character is attacked, I think that is really unwarranted.”
Dave Brandon says the football program will be making two changes to the way it handles injuries among players.
"We will have an athletic medicine professional in the press box or video booth to ensure that someone will have a bird's eye view of the on-field action, have television replay available and have the ability to communicate with medical personnel on the sidelines."
"We are also examining how to reinforce our sideline communication processes and how decisions will be made in order to make sure that information regarding student-athlete availability to participate is communicated effectively amongst the medical team and to our coaches."