The college football world was left stunned Saturday night when Iowa State tight end Benjamin Brahmer collapsed on the field after a devastating hit, sparking immediate concern for his health and future in the sport.
A Shocking Moment on the Field
With just under nine minutes left in the Cyclones’ 24-19 loss to Arizona State, Brahmer leapt for an incomplete pass and was met midair by a punishing blow from Arizona State cornerback Keith Abney II. The impact was so severe that Brahmer, after briefly regaining his footing, suddenly collapsed near the sideline, sending shockwaves through the stadium and prompting an urgent response from medical staff.
Players from both teams took a knee as trainers rushed to Brahmer’s side. The stadium fell silent as he lay motionless for several minutes. Eventually, Brahmer was carefully placed on a stretcher and carted off the field. In a moment that brought some relief, the 20-year-old managed to give a thumbs-up gesture to the crowd, drawing emotional applause from fans and teammates alike.
Immediate Medical Response and Hospitalization
Brahmer was transported to Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames for further evaluation. According to Iowa State officials and head coach Matt Campbell, Brahmer was
alert and moving his hands before being taken to the hospital—a positive sign amid the tense atmosphere.
Coach Campbell praised Brahmer’s toughness and composure, telling reporters,
“Ben is as tough as they come, so our thoughts and prayers will be with him. And if I know Ben, he'll be back better than ever here at some point.”Positive Updates and Discharge
By Sunday, the news took a hopeful turn: Brahmer was
discharged from the hospital after a series of precautionary tests. Iowa State’s athletic department confirmed that he was awake, alert, and in good spirits, though he will continue to be monitored by medical staff as he recovers.
Brahmer’s Impact and What’s Next
Brahmer, a junior from Pierce, Nebraska, has been a standout for the Cyclones, earning honorable mention All-Big 12 honors in each of his first two seasons. He entered Saturday’s game with 29 receptions for 319 yards and three touchdowns, and added three catches for 48 yards and a touchdown before the injury.
While it’s too soon to predict when Brahmer will return to the field, the immediate feedback from coaches and medical staff has been optimistic. The incident has reignited conversations about player safety and concussion protocols in college football, with many calling for continued vigilance and improved protective measures.
Takeaways and Future Implications
-
Player safety remains a top priority in college football, and Brahmer’s incident is a stark reminder of the risks athletes face.
- The quick response from medical personnel and the positive outcome highlight the importance of robust emergency protocols.
- Brahmer’s resilience and the support from his team and fans underscore the strong community within college sports.
As Brahmer begins his recovery, the Cyclones and their supporters are rallying behind him, hopeful for his swift and full return to the game he loves.
Sources
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