Orange head coach Doug Marrone announced today that senior linebacker Derrell Smith will miss the final two games of the 2009 season due to injury. Smith reported some soreness in his left knee after the Akron game. An MRI revealed a tear in his lateral meniscus. Following the contest at Louisville, Smith reported increased soreness in his left knee prohibiting further activity. Surgery, which will be performed in the near future by Dr. Irving Raphael, and rehabilitation will sideline Smith for the rest of season.
Smith is SU's leading tackler, averaging 8.2 tackles per game, which ranks sixth among BIG EAST defenders. He is also averaging 0.65 sacks and 1.0 tackles for loss per game. Smith’s 0.40 forced fumbles per game leads the BIG EAST, while his 0.65 sacks per game is tied for 41st nationally and ranks sixth in the BIG EAST. Smith has four forced fumbles, which ties for fourth on the Syracuse single-season record list and his five career forced fumbles ties for sixth on the SU ledger.
Syracuse will host #25 Rutgers this Saturday, November 21, in the Carrier Dome. Prior to the game Marrone and the University will salute the senior class for their commitment to the program. Tickets are available online and at the Carrier Dome Box Office (888-DOME-TIX).