Junior running back Toney Baker suffered a season-ending knee injury during Saturday’s game against Central Florida.

The injury occurred in the fourth quarter after he caught a pass in the flat and ran down the sideline.

“It’s a devastating blow for our football team,” O’Brien said.

Baker underwent arthroscopic surgery Sunday morning, and during the surgery, his doctor discovered cartilage damage. According to a press release from the University, he will “undergo reconstructive surgery at a later date.”

O’Brien said Baker is handling the situation well.

“He was in great spirits yesterday when I went to visit him. He said to me ‘well coach, I guess you got me for two more years,’ so he’s in the right mindset,” O’Brien said. “Today it might sink in a little more. This is the first time he’s been injured and maybe some of the medication they gave him is starting to wear off.”

The release said Baker should be eligible for a medical redshirt.