Dunleavy: I hope Tua Tagovailoa's career isn't over

By Mary Dunleavy, WRAL sports anchor/reporter

Two years ago I remember practicing Tua Tagovailoa's name over and over again before doing one of my sportscasts because I didn't want to mess it up.

I had just witnessed one of the best performances I had ever seen in my life: Tua's comeback win in overtime in the National Championship against Georgia.

It was announced late Saturday that Tagovailoa dislocated his hip after two Mississippi State defenders tackled him to the ground. He will miss the rest of the season.

He was lifted by multiple people to a cart that carried him off the field. He was unable to stand under his own power and was screaming in pain. It was excruciating to watch. I can only imagine what his family was thinking and feeling. They have been in my thoughts.

No matter who you cheer for, it sucked. It put a knot in my stomach. The worst part was Alabama head coach Nick Saban said he was planning on taking him out after that series of the game.

It seems that Tua's is noticing an outpouring of support.

For anyone wondering if it's similar to Bo Jackson's injury - listen to this guy:

There will be many articles written about Saban playing him too long or playing him in a game 'Bama would probably win anyway. Let people write them - but that's not what this article is about.

Here's Saban after the game:

Tagovailoa wanted to play against Mississippi State. Many reports have come out saying that he asked Saban to keep him in. Who wouldn't want to play - it's an SEC game, especially after losing for the first time in eight years to your rival (LSU).

I get it.

This is a horrible accident. This is awful news for football, one that might cost one of the best players we've all had the privilege to watch his career. I hope his career isn't over but if it is, I hope it doesn't get overshadowed by people pointing fingers.

Let's all think about what Tua has accomplished so far at 'Bama. How entertaining he's been on Saturdays. His toughness.

Prayers up that we can continue to watch him and magic like this: