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Maryland DB William Likely out for season

Maryland's William Likely (4) is one of the most dangerous returners in the country. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)
Maryland’s William Likely (4) is one of the most dangerous returners in the country. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)

Maryland will be without one of its best players for the rest of the season.

The program announced Friday night that senior defensive back William Likely suffered a torn ACL. The injury, which occurred during last weekend’s loss to Minnesota, presumably ends the career of Likely, who developed into one of the most dangerous kick returners in the country during his time with the Terps.

“In the short time I’ve been here at Maryland, I understand and have a great appreciation for the significant impact Will Likely has had on our football program,” said D.J. Durkin, Maryland’s first-year head coach. “Will was one of the first people I met with when I accepted this job and it was quickly apparent how much he meant to his teammates and Maryland football. He will continue to play a vital role in our program as we lean on him for his leadership and experience. I am confident Will has the work ethic, drive and focus to overcome this injury and continue his football career at the next level.”

Likely holds six Maryland program records, including his Big Ten record 233 punt return yards last season against Richmond, and was twice named to the All-Big Ten team. Likely had three return touchdowns in 2015 to go with 44 tackles and 11 passes defended. This season, Likely is third on the team with 32 tackles and is averaging 27.4 yards per kickoff return.

As a sophomore in 2014, Likely registered 83 tackles, six interceptions and two special teams touchdowns. Overall in his career, Likely totaled six return touchdowns — four on punts, two on kickoffs.

Maryland has lost its last two games after starting the year 4-0. The Terps host Michigan State Saturday night and could also be without starting quarterback Perry Hills for a second straight week. Hills injured his shoulder on Oct. 8 at Penn State and true freshman Tyrrell Pigrome got the start versus the Golden Gophers.

Saturday’s game against the Spartans kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET.

For more Maryland news, visit TerrapinSportsReport.com.

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Sam Cooper is a writer for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!