MIAMI (Feb. 4, 2007) -- Chicago Bears backup running back Cedric Benson injured his left knee in the first quarter and was ruled out for the rest of Super Bowl XLI against the Indianapolis Colts.
Benson, who fumbled on Chicago's previous possession, was hurt with 1:16 to in the opening quarter when he was tackled after a 4-yard gain. After staying on the ground for several minutes as trainers stretched out his knee, Benson got to his feet and walked off.
Benson later left the sideline for the locker room and an announcement was made moments before the half that he would not return, dealing the Bears' running attack a blow.
The Bears' first-round pick in the 2005 draft, Benson gained 647 yards this season and often spelled starter Thomas Jones, giving the Bears a 1-2 punch in the running game.
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