South Carolina has a chance to pull off a major U-turn on what has been a disappointing 2014 season with a win over No. 5 Auburn Saturday in Jordan-Hare Stadium, but it appears the Gamecocks must do so without two defensive contributors.
Senior defensive tackle J.T. Surratt suffered a pulled hamstring during yesterday’s 41-1o over Furman and will likely miss his chance to defend Nick Marshall and company.
“He’s probably doubtful to get back this week,” Steve Spurrier told AL.com in a Sunday evening teleconference. “J.T., one of our senior captains, we’ll miss him in there. Hopefully some of the other guys can fill in admirably.”
Additionally, back-up weak-side linebacker Jonathan Walton suffered a mild concussion Saturday and is doubtful this week.
Surratt has 14 tackles and a sack this season, while Walton has collected 21 tackles and a fumble recovery.
South Carolina has the SEC’s 12th-ranked total defense, ranks 13th in scoring defense and is dead last in yards per play allowed (6.21), while Auburn ranks third in the conference in scoring and fourth in both total offense and yards per play.
Tight end Rory Anderson is also questionable after injuring his triceps on Saturday, but Spurrier hopes to get him back on the practice field this week. Anderson has 18 grabs for 204 yards and a touchdown on the year.
Auburn and South Carolina will meet at 7:30 p.m. ET on SEC Network.