Heels' Gaskins, Taylor suffer knee injuries

North Carolina's depth on the offensive line decreased Wednesday when offensive tackle Carl Gaskins tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during the morning practice.

Team spokesman Kevin Best announced today that Gaskins, a sophomore who was competing for playing time at left tackle, is out for the season. Gaskins played in five games last season and was listed as a backup to senior Kyle Jolly.

Senior H-back Ryan Taylor also suffered a knee injury, although it wasn't quite as serious. Taylor sprained the medial collateral ligament in his right knee and is expected to miss about one month.

Taylor was listed as the starting H-back on the preseason depth chart and has been one of the team's most versatile players. He played mostly as a reserve linebacker last season and is a standout on special teams. Last season he shared special teams captain honors with Matt Merletti.

Ken Tysiac