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Texas running back Hollywood Smothers will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn MCL, dealing another setback to the No. 7 Longhorns’ offense.
A source confirmed the injury to ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Thursday. Smothers transferred from NC State and appeared in six games for Texas this season, making five starts.
He rushed for 283 yards and two touchdowns, ranking second on the team in both categories. His most memorable performance came against then-No. 1 Ohio State, when he rushed for 74 yards and scored touchdowns on Texas’ final two drives to help secure a 24-23 comeback victory.
Smothers Battles Injuries in First Texas Season
Smothers has dealt with multiple injuries throughout the season. He missed Texas’ games against Tennessee with a lower-body injury and Ole Miss with a shoulder problem before returning to the lineup.
However, he struggled in his latest appearance against Mississippi State, recording four carries for minus-6 yards before leaving with the injury.
The running back began his college career at Oklahoma before transferring to NC State. He rushed for 939 yards and six touchdowns last season, earning first-team All-ACC honors and becoming one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal.
Smothers initially committed to Alabama before changing his decision and joining Texas.
Longhorns Face More Injury Concerns
Smothers’ season-ending injury adds to Texas’ growing list of availability concerns ahead of Saturday’s road matchup against No. 18 Missouri.
Edge rusher Colin Simmons remains questionable after missing the previous two games with a high ankle sprain. Starting wide receivers Ryan Wingo and Cam Coleman are also listed as questionable, along with nickel cornerback Graceson Littleton.
The Longhorns have already lost starting left tackle Trevor Goosby for the season after he suffered a torn left patellar tendon and underwent surgery.
Texas will now have to find another way to replace Smothers’ production as it continues its push through the SEC schedule.
