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Ohio State running back Jordan Hall's quest to become coach Urban Meyer's top playmaker this fall took a step in the wrong direction on Friday when the senior running back underwent a foot surgery procedure that will force him out of action for the next 10 weeks.
Per an Ohio State spokesperson, Hall suffered a cut to the bottom of his right foot on Wednesday while walking in grass outside of his Columbus residence. He is expected to spend the next six weeks in a cast.
"This is an unfortunate accident to a really fine young man," Meyer said. "He's handling things well, though. He'll be in a non-weight bearing cast for about six weeks and then he'll rehabilitate the injury for at least four weeks after that."
Should Hall's injury keep him out of commission for the duration of the next 10 weeks as expected, the Jeannette, Pa. native would miss the Buckeyes' first two games of the 2012 season, and return in time for Ohio State's Sept. 15 meeting with California. The Buckeyes first two games of the season come against Miami (Ohio) and Central Florida.
After spending three seasons as a kick returner and backing up Dan Herron, Hall exited spring football atop the Ohio State depth chart at running back. He was expected to play a major role in the Buckeyes' offense, with Meyer referring to him as the team's top playmaker following spring practice. Hall sat out Ohio State's spring game with a sprained foot.
Through three seasons in Columbus, Hall has accounted for 817 rushing yards with five touchdowns, and 202 receiving yards helping him towards four more touchdowns. Including special teams play, he has gained 2,513 all-purpose yards during his time as a Buckeye.
Ohio State's fall camp will open during the first week of August. Junior Carlos Hyde, sophomore Rod Smith, and freshman Bri'onte Dunn all spent time backing up Hall at running back throughout the spring.
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