Auburn’s defensive coordinator Kevin Steele will be without an impact player, heading into next week’s Iron Bowl game. Sophomore defensive lineman Byron Cowart is out indefinitely after having an appendectomy this week. ESPN was first to break the information, retrieving the news from Tigers’ head coach Gus Malzahn.
The 6-foot-3, 276-pounder has contributed to a defense that’s been sound as of late.
Auburn allowed just 13.67 points per game during its six-game win streak, which was snapped against Georgia on last week. Cowart’s totaled six tackles, including one for loss and a forced fumble through 10 games.
Injuries have plagued the Tigers quite a bit, as running back Kamryn Pettway (leg) is listed as “hopeful” for next week. He will sit out this week, while quarterback Sean White (shoulder) is listed as “questionable” for Alabama A&M. Despite having Montravius Adams, Dontavius Russell and Carl Lawson, Auburn would rather go into Bryant-Denny Stadium with all hands on deck.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDAL
