Tigers practice in pads, Maye doubtful for Saturday

Maye will return against Auburn.

by TigerNet Staff - Wed Sep 08 20:24:17 GMT-04:00 2010

CLEMSON – The Clemson Tigers completed their final practice in pads before Saturday’s home game against Presbyterian on the practice fields behind Jervey on Wednesday, and head coach Dabo Swinney announced to reporters that two defensive starters may not be available by game time.

“We had a good practice in pads, and we had good intensity from the scout team,” Swinney said following practice. “That was good to see. They bring a lot of energy when they are working hard. We had good intensity from the scout groups, and we were able to work on some things we need to clean up.”

Starting weakside linebacker Brandon Maye, who missed last Saturday’s opener against North Texas after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery late last week, will more than likely be held out this week as a precaution. Defensive tackle Jarvis Jenkins, who was limping noticeably in the West Zone Monday after straining his MCL, is listed as questionable.

Senior defensive tackle Miguel Chavis, who sprained an ankle early in the contest against North Texas, will more than likely be able to play.

“Miguel looks good,” Swinney said. “He will probably be able to play if I had to say today because he did all the drills. Jarvis felt a lot better today, too. He ran well. He ran sprints at the end of practice, and he looks pretty good. We will talk more about him in the morning. We just want to be cautious with him at this point. He did practice yesterday and was limited today.

“Brandon, I would say he is doubtful. I would be shocked if he’s not ready to roll and be 100 percent next week against Auburn. He was not really able to practice yesterday or today, but I am sure it will be loosened up on him by Friday and he will be feeling really good.”

Swinney said that the Tigers have been working on trying to correct some of the mistakes from last Saturday’s 35-10 win.

“I am pleased with what the guys did Saturday, but we will know more in the next couple of weeks,” he said. “I know Tig [linebacker Tig Willard] did not play as well Saturday as he has practiced. He has not really been there before, so hopefully he will be a little more at ease and he will play like he is capable of playing.”