A week ago, Auburn was “very optimistic” that it would have its leading rusher coming off the bye this past weekend. With the Arkansas game fast approaching, the signs are still pointing in that general direction.
On the SEC coaches teleconference Wednesday, Gus Malzahn confirmed that Kerryon Johnson was a full participant in practice Tuesday. The running back sustained a sprained ankle in the Week 6 win over Mississippi State.
As for his Week 8 availability? It appears a final decision won’t be made until closer to kick off, even as the program is optimistic Johnson will be available.
“He was better than he was on Sunday,” the Tigers head coach said. “We’ll just have to keep checking to see his progress up until Saturday.”
Johnson’s 538 yards rushing and six touchdowns are tops among all Tiger backs. Kamryn Pettway is second with 505, with a career-high 169 of those coming after Johnson sustained his injury. Three of Pettway’s four touchdowns this season also came in the Miss. St. game.