Trent Howard loses season after suffering ACL injury in practice

In Clemson, South Carolina, the 12th-ranked football team faced a significant setback ahead of their crucial game against rival No. 16 South Carolina. Fifth-year graduate Trent Howard, a reserve guard for the Tigers, suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during practice earlier this week. The injury was announced by Tigers coach Dabo Swinney on Wednesday, impacting Howard's role as he had been stepping in for injured teammates. Howard had been filling in as a starter due to various injuries affecting Clemson's offensive line this season. His performance included a recent start against The Citadel, and he was slated to start again if Marcus Tate remained unavailable. As a reserve, Howard had already been listed as a backup guard but was thrust into action, showcasing his resilience throughout the season. The absence of Howard and other key linemen could hinder the Tigers' offensive performance against the Gamecocks, exacerbating the difficulties they have faced on the line this season and raising concerns for the coaching staff regarding their depth. The upcoming game now takes on added significance as the Tigers seek to maintain their momentum while grappling with injuries that threaten their postseason aspirations. The team, with a record of 9-2, must rely on remaining players to step up as they prepare to face an increasingly competitive opponent in South Carolina. The rivalry and added pressure make this an emotionally charged matchup, but without Howard, the Tigers face an uphill battle to secure a win in the critical rivalry game.