TLDR: Daune Morris, an Oakland running back and key USC recruit, is facing several weeks on the sidelines due to an ankle injury. The injury was sustained at the start of a game against Independence, leading to an MRI that confirmed a high ankle sprain. Coach Kevin Creasy mentioned an estimated 5-6 weeks of recovery for Morris, who has been crucial in his team’s past seasons. Despite his absence, the team secured a tight victory against Anna, Texas, with standout performances by teammates TT Hill and Craig Tutt. Morris, a top national athlete and state-level recruit, had previously included prestigious SEC schools and USC in his top 10 choices before his commitment earlier this year.

Oakland running back Daune Morris, a key recruit for USC, finds himself sidelined for an estimated several weeks following an unfortunate ankle injury. During the first play of the showdown against Independence, Morris suffered the injury which was later diagnosed as a high ankle sprain following an MRI. Patriots’ coach Kevin Creasy stated on Friday night that the current expectation for Morris’s recovery is at least five to six weeks. On the upside, despite his absence in the subsequent game, Oakland held a strong victory against Anna, Texas, with a score of 52-48, overcoming their opponent’s reputation as defending 4A champions.

Morris’s absence was filled by impressive performances from his teammates, namely senior TT Hill and junior Craig Tutt, who carried the offensive load in Texas. Hill recorded 202 rushing yards and four touchdowns, while Tutt contributed 194 rushing yards and two touchdowns. This resilience underscores the depth and talent present in the Oakland Patriots lineup, maintaining their competitive edge even without Morris’s dynamic presence on the field. The injury, while a setback, is met with assurance from the coaching staff as Morris remains a figure of inspiration on the sidelines, rallying his team to victory.

Prior to his commitment to USC, Morris boasted an impressive list of offers from various top-tier SEC schools, reflecting his prowess on the field and promising potential. Among his top choices were Auburn, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Texas A&M, as well as Colorado and Louisville. Recognized nationally as a significant talent, Morris is ranked 30th among athletes and 17th in Tennessee for the 2025 class by 247Sports Composite. His journey has been one to watch, with high expectations for his return to football and the unfolding career that lies ahead post-recovery.