Prior to its huge showdown with No. 3 Mississippi State, No. 2 Auburn has acknowledged a key member of its defensive secondary will remain sidelined.
When asked if Jermaine Whitehead will be available for Saturday’s game against the Bulldogs, head coach Gus Malzahn offered a succinct, “no, he won’t be.” White was indefinitely suspended back in mid-September, reportedly for getting into a verbal altercation with an assistant coach.
Because of the suspension, Whitehead has missed games against Kansas State, Louisiana Tech and LSU.
According to al.com, Whitehead has not been allowed on the sidelines during games since he was suspended. He has, though, been seen around the football program.
“I know Whitehead is extremely apologetic for it. I’ve talk to him,” defensive lineman Gabe Wright said. “Even as a 21-22-year-old kid, it’s always hard to get down to the end and you know just have to fight. That’s what he’s doing and I’m proud of him. I honestly know he’s apologetic.”
Prior to his suspension, Whitehead had started the last 26 games at safety, and is still currently tied for the lead in interceptions with two. One of those picks was returned for a touchdown in the season-opening win over Arkansas.
Despite Whitehead’s absence, AU’s pass defense still ranks fifth in the SEC and 32nd nationally by giving up 206.4 yards per game.