The effects of Scott Long’s injury-related problems were much more serious than first reported, according to a story in the Wilmington (N.C.) Star News. The University of Louisville wide receiver suffered a torn ACL in his right knee in a practice session the week after the South Florida win.

During surgery a week later, complications arose when a blood clot in his calf traveled to a lung. It forced him to remain in the hospital for another week. The 6-foot-2, 211-pound Long has started seven months of rehabilitation.

That means Long will probably miss spring practice and will rejoin the team in August, hoping to be ready for the beginning of the 2009 football season.

Long has had his ups and downs at UofL. He injured his foot before this past season and missed the first four games. He was suspended for several games by Coach Bobby Petrino during his freshman season for hitting a female with a paint gun.

Long says he hung around with the wrong crowd and regrets the paintball incident, which he also says gave him a different perspective. “It was actually a blessing I didn’t get more punishment than I did,’’ he said. “It is something I am very remorseful for, and I definitely learned my lesson. It gave me a better appreciation for the things I am blessed with, especially this opportunity to play college football and get my education paid for.’’

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Victor Anderson has been named Big East Conference Rookie of the Year for his prowess during the past season, which included 1,047 yards rushing and eight touchdowns

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The University of Louisville women’s basketball team (7-1) takes on a dangerous Hartford University team at 7 o’clock tonight at Freedom Hall. The visiting team has a 5-4 won-lost record but owns impressive wins over fifth-rated Duke and Providence this season. Sonja has a more in-depth preview here.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.