After a two-week hiatus due to an injury and then surgery on his left hand, Mason Graham returned to the starting lineup against Minnesota and did not disappoint. The big sophomore led the Wolverines with six tackles and recorded a very athletic sack. Of course, after the sack, he celebrated in a way that definitely resonated in Minneapolis.
After the game, Graham was asked about the time away and also about how it felt to get back out there and not only play, but shine.
“I’ve been out the last two weeks and hungry to get back onto the field with my guys, get back out there with the defense and the team,” Graham said. “I was just waiting for my opportunity, and I guess today was the day.”
Graham got cleared about a week before the Minnesota game so he had an opportunity to get used to the clubbed hand. After watching him against the Gophers, I’d say he’s very used to playing with just one hand.
“It’s a little difficult,” Graham said with a smile. “But this past week I’ve been practicing like that, so I’ve definitely gotten used to it. And today, I felt pretty good.”
After the six tackle, two TFL and one sack performance, Graham graded out higher than any other defensive tackle in the entire country. It’s a pretty special accomplishment to achieve with one functional hand considering how physical the position is.
Source: Sports Illustrated
