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When college seniors get their degrees, it normally means it's time to move on to the next stage of their lives. Add in a back operation, and the idea of returning to the football field might not appeal to many. But SMU quarterback J.J. McDermott said neither will get in the way of his plan to return to the field in 2011. McDermott visited with PonyFans.com to discuss the details of his January operation and when he hopes to return to the field.

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You're lapping the field again, webguys. Back injuries can be scary, but it sounds like J.J. is optimistic about a full recovery. After watching my grandfather deal with back issues for years, the only thing I can suggest, J.J., is DON'T PUSH IT. If the doctors say wait until May, wait. Make absolutely sure you are 100 percent before running the risk of more injury.

Big Easy Pony wrote:You're lapping the field again, webguys. Back injuries can be scary, but it sounds like J.J. is optimistic about a full recovery. After watching my grandfather deal with back issues for years, the only thing I can suggest, J.J., is DON'T PUSH IT. If the doctors say wait until May, wait. Make absolutely sure you are 100 percent before running the risk of more injury.

Clearly your avatar has no such problem.

I never thought to participate in any sport except in day dreams but I had similar back surgery as a mature person and know a little about what JJM has gone through and what he is facing now. I was down for six months total. JJM, I hope you are able to suit up this fall, but I sure agree with the previous writer: listen to your doctors and don't push it. It does come to mind that Troy Aikman had back surgery while playing for the cowboys and returned to the field the same season and I suppose he is a model for all injured QBs, but I can only repeat, listen to your doctors.

Certainly you have my vadmiration and very best wishes.

If it turns out he can't return to the field, QB depth becomes a serious issue next year.

Unless Coach Jones and Coach Morrison can develop Stephen Kaiser and Conner Preston like we think they can.
That said, hope JJ feel much better — soon.

Our QBs took a beating in the fall. Mono, back, ankle.

I don't care if J.J. throws a single pass this spring. Do mental reps and get that back healthy.

Right on. Back injuries are scary - take care of that first.