Minnesota’s top running back and one of the best ball-carriers in the B1G will miss the remainder of the season due to injury.

According to The Athletic‘s Jon Krawczynski, Gophers running back Rodney Smith will be sidelined with an injury to his left knee. Smith had just one carry for one yard in Minnesota’s win over Fresno State before leaving the field.

Minnesota was already without the services of Shannon Brooks, another stud running back who suffered a season-ending injury prior to spring. No. 3 running back Mohamed Ibrahim has also been banged up, likely putting Bryce Williams into the starting role, at least temporarily.

Smith rushed for 153 yards in Minnesota’s 48-10 win over New Mexico State in Week 1.

Smith has served as a staple in the Gophers offense for the last three seasons. From 2015-2017, the running back registered 2,805 yards and 21 touchdowns for the Minnesota offense. His best season came in 2016, totaling 1,158 and 16 touchdowns.

The loss of Smith is significant for the Gophers, a young team trying to lean on its veteran playmakers for success. With the running game massively impaired now, Minnesota may have to rely on receivers Tyler Johnson and Rashod Bateman to do a little more work the rest of the way.

Minnesota closes out non-conference play on Saturday against Miami (OH).