A revived national discussion about concussions in football arises from a University of Michigan coach's controversial decision near the end of a recent game. Michigan quarterback Shane Morris was wobbly as he rose unsteadily from a helmet-to-helmet hit by a University of Minnesota lineman. Coach Brady Hoke let Morris finish the game, as the sophomore wanted. ESPN sportscasters voiced surprise. Critics on campus and beyond blasted Hoke, and the student newspaper urged dismissal because he "jeopardized Morris' health."

When a hospital exam showed Morris may have a mild concussion, university President Mark Schlissel, on the job just three weeks, expressed "extreme disappointment in the events surrounding the handling of an on-field injury to one of our football players." He promises immediate changes, such as having an athletic medical professional in the press box or video booth to assure a clear view of tackles and collisions, plus access to video replays.

The case prompts wider attention to a situation the NFL is addressing. It raises the question of whether a formal policy should require colleges to keep players with concussion-like symptoms out of the game until they're tested. The pro league has done that since 2010, but the NCAA just has optional guidelines. The head of the National College Players Association wants "independent concussion experts on the sideline with the power to pull a player." The Sept. 27 incident with 20-year-old Morris is "a critical lesson to us about how vigilant and disciplined we must always be," his school's president says.

Sportscaster says: "It is appalling that he was left in on that play to throw the ball again. . . . Having a quarterback in the game after a hit like that is terrible looking after a young player." – Ed Cunningham, ESPN

University leader says: "Our system failed. . . . We did not get this right and for this I apologize to Shane, his family, his teammates, and the entire Michigan family." – Mark Schlissel, University of Michigan president

Student sportswriters say: "We were appalled to see Morris left on the field. We imagine our parents mortified, watching someone else's blatant disregard for their son or daughter’s health." – The Michigan Daily football beat staff