Clemson football is navigating significant injury challenges as they prepare for their rivalry game against South Carolina. Head coach Dabo Swinney provided updates on Wednesday, offering one piece of positive news and one setback.
The bad news concerns offensive lineman Trent Howard, who tore his ACL during practice this week, ending his season. Swinney expressed deep sympathy, describing Howard as an essential teammate and strong character on the team. Howard, a fifth-year senior, had stepped up amidst Clemson’s ongoing struggles with offensive line injuries. He started last week against The Citadel and would have likely started again versus South Carolina due to injuries to other linemen, including Marcus Tate.
On a brighter note, linebacker Wade Woodaz, Clemson’s leading tackler, is showing progress in his recovery. Swinney reported that Woodaz is improving daily after suffering a severe leg contusion that kept him out of the last two games. Woodaz, who has 65 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss this season, could significantly impact the game if cleared to play. His status remains uncertain, but Swinney is hopeful he’ll be ready.
As Clemson aims to secure a win in their annual rivalry game and boost their College Football Playoff chances, the team will need every available resource on the field. Fans will be closely watching Woodaz’s status leading up to game time.
