MADISON, Wis. (AP) -Wisconsin wide receiver Kyle Jefferson was scheduled to be released from the hospital Sunday, one day after he sustained a concussion in the Badgers’ 35-32 victory over Minnesota.
Jefferson was taken off the field in an ambulance after a big hit left him motionless for several minutes in the second quarter of Saturday’s game, raising concern that his injuries might be more serious.
“This is probably the best ending we could hope for to what was a pretty scary situation,” Badgers coach Bret Bielema said in a statement Sunday. “We are extremely thankful that Kyle will be released from the hospital. It is always tough to see one of your players get injured like he did, and while a concussion is a serious injury, I am happy to know it is nothing more serious than that.”
Jefferson caught a pass from Dustin Sherer in Minnesota territory and was wrapped up by cornerback Traye Simmons, then was hit hard by linebacker Simoni Lawrence and fumbled the ball. A television replay showed that Lawrence’s shoulder connected with Jefferson’s helmet.
“I put my shoulder on the ball and am not sure what happened,” Lawrence said after the game. “I hope he’s OK. I hate to see a player get hurt.”
Jefferson was surrounded by trainers and teammates, then lifted onto a stretcher and loaded into an ambulance about eight minutes after he hit the ground.
Bielema said after Saturday’s game that Jefferson was knocked unconscious on the field but was able to talk, squeeze his hands and move his feet afterward.
“I think we have the best medical personnel and facilities at our disposal and at times like these that is incredibly important,” Bielema said Sunday.
Jefferson, a sophomore, came into Saturday’s game fourth on the team with 13 catches for 179 yards.
“I know Kyle would like to thank everyone, especially all the Badger fans, for their thoughts and prayers during this trying time,” Bielema said. “Kyle has a terrific family and I know their love and support is extremely important to him, especially during this recovery period.”
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