Wisconsin's Caputo returns to practice, not cleared to play
MADISON -- Wisconsin safety Michael Caputo has returned to practice, though his status for the Badgers' home opener on Saturday remains in question while he goes through a concussion protocol.
Caputo was hurt on the third play of the 35-17 loss to Alabama last Saturday while trying to tackle running back Derrick Henry. Caputo was so woozy that he initially lined up on Alabama's side of the field for the next play before trainers came out to get him.
Speaking about his injury for the first time, Caputo said he never lost consciousness and was "fully aware" as he headed to the sideline.
"I remember the play. It's the fact I knew something was wrong. I didn't care about where I was on the field," Caputo said. "I knew that something was wrong and I needed help."
It was at that moment, Caputo recounted, that frustration had passed and he knew he could not return.
"It was almost 16 gravitational force. I guess they said fighter pilots pass out at 13," he said. "Mine was pretty high. I just knew that I needed some help."
He wore a "no contact" jersey at practice on Wednesday evening and said he intended to play in the opener at Camp Randall Stadium against Miami (Ohio).
Caputo was still being evaluated, though coordinator Dave Aranda sounded optimistic that his defensive captain would be available.
"He's eager to go. I'm looking forward to having him," Aranda said. "Everything's been positive up to this point."
Caputo said while the symptoms don't match those typical of a concussion, he won't take any chances if he doesn't feel ready to play.
"I definitely trust the medical staff and they trust me," Caputo said. "When they clear me with any injury, they say `You're clear to go if you feel OK.' That's where the trust is with the medical staff."
