Stafon Johnson in Critical but stable condition following throat surgery!

Southern California tailback Stafon Johnson had emergency throat surgery Monday after a weightlifting accident.

The senior who scored the No. 7 Trojans’ go-ahead touchdown against Ohio State two weeks ago

University of Southern California Official Athletic Site

was bench-pressing when the bar slipped from his right hand and fell onto his throat.

He required emergency surgery and is unlikely to play against California on Saturday.

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“It was an unfortunate accident, and Stafon is getting great care right now,” coach Pete Carroll said in a statement. “We don’t have a lot of information at this point, and we’ll keep everyone updated, but our thoughts and prayers are with Stafon.”

Johnson is the Trojans’ second-leading rusher with 157 yards, and he leads USC (3-1, 1-1 Pac-10) with five touchdowns. He led USC in rushing last season with 705 yards and nine touchdowns, but has evolved into the Trojans’ short-yardage specialist this season behind starter Joe McKnight.

Here’s more from ESPN.com’s Ted Miller:

Head strength and conditioning coach Chris Carlisle said Johnson was using a spotter when the accident occurred.

“I’ve seen players have the bar slip and fall onto their chest, but never in my 25 years of coaching have I heard of someone dropping a bar on their throat,” Carlisle said. “We’re fortunate he was being spotted.”  Read more here

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