One of the surprising factors in Oregon’s 59-14 win over Tennessee Saturday was the impressive play from freshman tight end Johnny Mundt, but Mundt’s placement on the depth chart led many to wonder, where was Colt Lyerla?
According to the ABC/ESPN broadcast, Lyerla had the flu and in Mundt’s post game interview he confirmed Lyerla’s condition. Mundt also stated he found out on Friday that he would be starting against the Volunteers.
However, in the post-game press conference, when asked about Lyerla’s absence, head coach Mark Helfrich cited only “circumstances.”
The Oregonian’s Jason Quick talked to Lyerla Sunday about Helfrich’s comments. Lyerla stated that he was disappointed and felt hurt by Helfrich’s lack of clarification to the media.
“I just felt he could have had my back a little bit more instead of throwing me under the bus,” Lyerla told Quick.
He also added he was sick and missed practice Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, but knew he wouldn’t play due to team rules on the number of practices a player must attend to be eligible.
Colt Lyerla not present with the team today as he is reportedly out with stomach flu.
— Emerald Sports (@ODEsports) September 14, 2013
Strong take @jwquick on Mark Helfrich’s “circumstances” remark. Wasn’t fair to @LongLiveLyerla http://t.co/pc9ghXxFHs
— John Canzano (@JohnCanzanoBFT) September 15, 2013
The team killed it. #mundt4heisman
— THE ONE FIVE (@LongLiveLyerla) September 14, 2013
Stay Calm and Win the Day
— THE ONE FIVE (@LongLiveLyerla) September 15, 2013