Who knew a pass rusher and his main target would have so much in common? However, it appears that David Gilbert and Curt Phillips have more in common than any of us could possibly imagine.
What am I talking about? Well, following Wednesday's practice it is being reported by Tom Mulhern of the Wisconsin State Journal that David Gilbert, who was supposed to be making the transition from defensive end to outside linebacker, will be out the entire spring with yet another foot injury.
Big news after #Badgers practice, OLB David Gilbert tells me he's having foot surgery on Friday and will be out all spring.
— Tom Mulhern (@TomMulhernWSJ) March 14, 2013
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It's clearly a blow to a guy that has been snake bitten with foot injuries in the past. Apparently it's the same foot he has had surgery on twice in the past and the reason why he had to redshirt the 2011 season. So, with Gilbert having surgery again the natural questions are two fold.
Will he be ready for Fall and who will take his place? Mulhern gave us an answer to the first question from Gilbert himself.
Gilbert: "Playing it by ear and really testing my body … so we don't have any setbacks, because I'm known for setbacks with my foot."
— Tom Mulhern (@TomMulhernWSJ) March 14, 2013
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As for the who will replace him? Well, look to redshirt freshman Vince Biegel to take advantage of the reps that Gilbert would've taken this spring as he's already been working with the No. 1's through the first three practices – including tonight's padded practice.
This has to be some troubling news for Gilbert, who was just getting back into form after a healthy 2012, and who seems to never fully get over the original break in his right foot. However, all he has to do for motivation is look to the other side of the ball and see what Curt Phillips has overcome and realize that hard work and faith can overcome just about anything.
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