Bobby Carpenter shouldn't play this soon

Ohio State linebacker Bobby Carpenter broke his leg on the first defensive play of the Michigan game on 19 November. This morning, I read that he is anxious to play in the Fiesta Bowl against Notre Dame on 2 January 2006.

``Really just to play with my teammates one last time,'' Carpenter said. ``We have a special relationship. It's really something you can't explain.''

His desire to be on the field is understandable. As a sports fan I'd love to see a great player like him in a big game especially since the Buckeyes were noted for their linebacker play this year. However, his desire to play and our desire to see a great game shouldn't outweigh the concern over risk to his future health.