As August wraps up, Auburn football is gearing up for its return. The Tigers will kick off their second season under head coach Hugh Freeze this Saturday, hosting Alabama A&M at 6:30 p.m. in Jordan-Hare Stadium.
A key focus for Freeze during fall camp has been to keep his players healthy and prevent major injuries before the season starts, particularly after Texas running back Christian Clark’s season-ending ACL tear made headlines.
How have the Tigers fared leading up to the 2024 season? While there haven’t been any serious injuries, a few players have had minor issues. According to Freeze, cornerback Keionte Scott and linebacker Austin Keys are both likely to play this weekend, though their participation remains uncertain.
Freeze mentioned, “Our medical team feels that Keys is probable. He has another day of walkthrough today. I’ll need to see how he performs on Tuesday and Wednesday to be more confident. That’s the outlook for him and Keionte.”
Transfer wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith had a minor ankle issue earlier in camp but is back in practice and expected to start on Saturday.
Kicker Alex McPherson is improving after a significant gastrointestinal issue, but he’s not expected to be ready for this weekend’s game. Freshman Towns McGough, who impressed during the A-Day game, is likely to start in his place.
“Alex is doing much better, but I don’t think he’ll be ready to play yet,” Freeze said. “Towns is prepared and had a great week last week. That’s the direction we’re heading, though Alex did kick a bit last Thursday. He might not be ready this Saturday.”
Overall, Auburn football is in good shape as they head into their season opener and a five-game home stretch.
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