Why Michigan RB Blake Corum is Unlikely to Play Against Ohio State

Michigan star running back Blake Corum injured his left knee in Saturday's gutsy 19-17 win over Illinois and returned for just one carry in the second half.

By video, Corum appeared to suffer an MCL sprain with a possible bone bruise when his knee hyperextended on the hit with his left foot planted.

Corum dropped the ball in pain and lost a fumble on the play, but he reportedly checked out well at halftime and was “cleared to go back in,” Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh said after the game. 

“His knee is structurally good,” Harbaugh told reporters postgame Saturday.

Although the coach's words are a positive sign that Corum is not done for the season, he is unlikely to play effectively in the pivotal clash against No. 2 Ohio State this Saturday.

Dr. David Chao, ProFootballDoc, explained below on Monday's podcast why Corum likely has a bone bruise in his left knee.

Bone bruises can take weeks to heal, as was the case recently with Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott. 

Elliott was injured in a similar fashion and recently returned after missing three weeks.

If Corum suits up for the game, he is unlikely to be effective given just one week to rest. Michigan will likely have to rely on a combination of Donovan Edwards, C.J. Stokes and Isaiah Gash to gain yards on the ground.

Corum has 1,457 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns this season, while the other three have combined for 840 rushing yards and 7 rushing touchdowns.

Michigan vs. Ohio State Week 12 Odds

The Wolverines are 7.5-point underdogs on the road against Ohio State and the over/under is 57.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

For injury-based bets throughout the bowl season and the remainder of the NFL season, sign up for SIC picks here.

Through Week 11, our staff is 55.3% on player props and 59% on live bets.