Analyzing LSU's injury report ahead of South Carolina matchup

South Carolina will enter a hostile environment this weekend, as the Gamecocks will face the LSU Tigers in front of a sold-out crowd in Baton Rouge.

Both teams are coming off a bye week but enter the contest at less than 100%. The SEC-mandated availability report for the game has some notable names listed.

South Carolina has already ruled out offensive linemen Cason Henry, Nolan Hay, and Markee Anderson, three blockers who have started or played rotationally this season. Cornerback Myles Norwood and defensive lineman Troy Pikes each moved from “questionable” to “probable” before leaving the availability report. Corner Judge Collier had been on the report earlier in the week but exited on Thursday.

Talented sophomore EDGE Gabriel Reliford is out for the year for LSU, and several other Tigers find themselves on the injury report.

As of Friday night, offensive lineman Paul Mubenga carries an “out” designation. He previously was “doubtful.” Wide receiver Aaron Anderson is listed as “questionable.” He had been “probable” on Wednesday. “Probable” was next to the names of running back Caden Durham and defensive lineman Ahmad Breaux earlier in the week, but both players were left off the Friday night report.

But what does any of that mean for Saturday’s matchup between the Gamecocks and the Tigers?

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LSU’s injury situation includes several impactful players, including Paul Mubenga. Mubenga was the team’s starter at left guard but will not play against USC thanks to an ankle sprain. He is one of two players with starting experience from last season to return for offensive line coach Brad Davis’ unit. Freshmen Coen Echols and Carius Curne are next in line for the Tigers.

Aaron Anderson is the leading receiver for LSU this season. The 5-8 speedster is dealing with a knee injury. Earlier this week, head coach Brian Kelly said Anderson was “85%” but downgraded him from probable to questionable from Wednesday to Thursday. Anderson had 96 yards against South Carolina last season.

Running back Caden Durham missed the Tigers’ loss to Ole Miss. However, he will play this weekend after beginning the week on the injury report with a hurt ankle. He leads LSU in rushing and managed to rack up 98 yards and two touchdowns against Carolina last year.

The Bayou Bengals have taken a big step defensively this year under defensive coordinator Blake Baker. However, the pass rush has been inconsistent, and with Reliford out, the EDGE depth took a hit. Reliford’s rotation mate, senior Patrick Payton, will get more reps now. He has just a half-sack on the season through five games. Versatile defender Harold Perkins may be called upon to rush the passer more often, as well.

Defensive tackle Ahmad Breaux has been a solid player for LSU this season, but is available and close to 100% for this game. He plays multiple spots on the Tiger defensive line and could help out at EDGE some with Reliford out.

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Not included on the availability report is quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. The preseason All-American has been dealing with a somewhat mysterious issue that has been called an “upper body injury” and an “abdominal injury” in recent weeks. Coach Kelly and Nussmeier recently confirmed the issue but downplayed its severity.

Nussmeier’s absence from the availability report certainly indicates there is no question as to his status for Saturday. However, watching his film, there have been instances this season in which he has been unable to make the same types of throws he made last season when fully healthy. His mechanics seemingly have shifted to compensate for the injury.

Tight end Trey’Dez Green is also not on the injury report despite suffering a sprained knee in September. A 6-7 tight end who also plays basketball, he will be a player to watch when the Gamecocks are on defense. Green is as healthy as he has been since the season opener.

Saturday night’s SEC showdown will begin at 7:45 p.m. (Eastern). SEC Network will carry the television broadcast, and the ESPN app will make the action available via streaming.

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