Jalen Smith's Family Overcome With Emotion After Mississippi State Player's Injury
The linebacker's relatives were visibly distressed as he was helped off the field during a key conference game.
Mississippi State linebacker Jalen Smith's family were visibly upset as he sustained an injury during the Bulldogs' game against Alabama on Saturday. The 21-year-old went down in the second quarter of the contest at Davis Wade Stadium.
Smith appeared to suffer a non-contact injury shortly after Alabama scored a touchdown to extend their lead to 21-7. He remained on the ground, prompting the team's medical staff to rush onto the field. After being assisted to his feet, Smith was helped off the field by two trainers, with a towel draped over his head.
A large group of Smith's family were present for the game, distinguished by custom white T-shirts bearing his name. Cameras focused on the family section, where one relative was seen leaning on railings with his head in his hands, appearing to fight back tears.
Before Saturday's game, Smith had recorded 28 tackles, one tackle for loss, and one interception for Mississippi State this season. He transferred to Mississippi State after two years with the Tennessee Vols. Last season, his first with the Bulldogs, he registered 57 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and one pass deflection.
The loss of Smith was compounded for Mississippi State, as running back Fluff Bothwell also left the game after his first carry. Additionally, fellow linebacker Zakari Tillman had been ruled out of the game earlier in the week.