Turner out eight weeks

Every year, it seems that there is a season-changing injury to an All-American at some point in the season.

This season, we might have gotten it already – Ohio State junior swingman Evan Turner will miss eight weeks after fracturing two vertebrae in his back. He suffered the injury after falling on a missed dunk attempt during Saturday’s game against Eastern Michigan.

Head coach Thad Matta was initially optimistic about the injury after x-rays showed no serious injuries, but later tests discovered the fractures along the spine.

Turner has been one of the best players in the country during the first month of the season, averaging 20.6 points, 12.9 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game, including two triple-doubles.

Ohio State is currently 7-1, but will need seniors P.J. Hill and Jeremie Simmons to step up in Turner’s absence. Hill and Simmons combined for 35 points against Eastern Michigan.