Reports: Virginia Faces Massive Injury Setback For Virginia’s Game Against Maryland
Virginia head coach Tony Elliott provides an update on UVA’s starting linebacker Kam Robinson
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.– Virginia football will be missing a crucial defensive starter for their home game against Maryland on Saturday night. Kam Robinson will not play due to a knee sprain he sustained during last Saturday’s win over Wake Forest.
Virginia head coach Tony Elliott informed reporters earlier this week that Robinson had been ‘limited’ in practice leading up to the game.
“All the scans and tests came back positive—now it’s just about managing the pain,” Elliott said on Tuesday. “You’re hopeful for this week; he’s been moving around and participating in most drills, but he’s still a bit limited.”
Virginia linebacker Trey McDonald filled in for Robinson against Wake Forest, making a crucial sack on fourth down in the fourth quarter.
“During fall camp, with James recovering from surgery, Trey got a lot of reps,” Elliott noted. “I’ve seen him improve significantly. I don’t think there’s a more competitive player on our team than Trey. He’s very physical and smart, and he’s really starting to find his groove with more physical reps. I’m excited for his opportunity if Kam can’t go.”
“He came in, finished the game, recorded a sack, and was effective. I have full confidence in him.”
Elliott mentioned that McDonald serves as the third option at linebacker, capable of playing both positions, with James Jackson also able to step in if needed.
Robinson made an immediate impact on Virginia’s defense since joining as a freshman last season, showcasing the elite talent that the program wanted to retain despite late interest from South Carolina and Florida State.
He accumulated 71 tackles, ranking third on the team, even though he didn’t start until week four last season. In that week four game against NC State, he truly made his mark, posting 11 tackles—the highest for a Virginia true freshman linebacker since Ahmad Brooks in 2003.
Additionally, the Cavaliers will be without wide receiver Suderian Harrison for their game against the Terps.