Multiple Starters Including John Mateer’s Key Support, Mentioned in Auburn vs. Oklahoma Week 4 Injury Report

Well, ESPN’s Football Power Index is giving Auburn little love heading into Week 4. Despite the Tigers’ perfect 3-0 start, the numbers don’t favor them against Oklahoma. After 20,000 simulations, the Sooners came out ahead 65.3% of the time, leaving Auburn just a 34.7% chance to spring the upset. So now, with John Mateer fueling a lethal offense and Brent Venables’ defense smothering opponents, the model suggests Auburn’s unbeaten run may not be enough to slow down the Sooners. And the cautious buzz around the Tigers is growing louder. Here comes why.

Auburn heads into Week 4 against Oklahoma with a few bumps and bruises. And according to On3’s Pete Thamel’s report, the biggest question mark hangs over star WR Eric Singleton Jr. The explosive playmaker is listed as questionable, leaving fans holding their breath about whether he’ll suit up in the marquee matchup. On top of that, he’s John Mateer’s key support, so his questionable status could deal a major blow to Auburn. Most importantly, he’s joined on the list by fellow cornerback Champ Anthony, corner Rayshawn Pleasant, and offensive lineman Izavion Miller, all tagged as questionable. But the injury list doesn’t end there.

The Tigers will also be without running back Durell Robinson, who is officially ruled out. Defensive end Amaris Williams and cornerback Jay Crawford sit in the doubtful category. Then, on the brighter side, running back Damari Alston and wide receiver Malcolm Simmons are probable to play, giving Hugh Freeze’s offense some firepower back. So, Auburn will need every healthy playmaker ready if they want to keep pace with Oklahoma’s physical defense under the lights this weekend. But don’t worry, Auburn Nation, rival Oklahoma won’t be at full strength for Saturday’s showdown.

Well, Oklahoma released its injury report on Wednesday, and several key players are now in question. DB Eli Bowen and WR Javonnie Gibson are listed as doubtful, while a cluster of offensive linemen, including Isaiah Dent, Michael Fasusi, Jake Maikkula, and Febechi Nwaiwu, are tagged as questionable. On top of that, WR Zion Kearney also joins the questionable group, with WR Keontez Lewis and DL Danny Okoye listed as probable to play. But that’s not all.

Here’s the thing: some key pieces won’t suit up at all. OL Troy Everett, DB Jeremiah Newcombe, and OLs Jacob Sexton and Jake Taylor are officially out. Now, with several starters in flux, depth and adaptability will be crucial for Brent Venables’ squad as they aim to stay sharp and maintain momentum against Auburn’s fast-rising offense. So, despite experts favoring the Sooners, they face a huge test against Hugh Freeze’s Auburn. And now, the Tigers’ HC dropped a hint of positive news ahead of Saturday’s clash.

Auburn’s HC brings some encouraging news

Auburn HC Hugh Freeze shared encouraging news on Monday about the Tigers’ health heading into their SEC opener. Yes, he noted that only one player remains a real concern. “I expect them to make good progress. If I had to say today, I would think the biggest concern would be Amaris (Williams),” mentioned Freeze. And why not? Williams, the Tigers’ DE, left the 1st quarter of last Saturday’s 31-15 win over South Alabama with a separated shoulder. But outside of Williams, key contributors are on track to play.

Look, RB Damari Alston sidelined for 2 weeks with shoulder and thumb injuries, is expected to suit up. On top of that, Freeze also mentioned that WR Malcolm Simmons, who missed last week, appears healthy. “I think everybody else will try. I think that’s the biggest concern I had today would be Amaris,” added Freeze, giving Auburn fans hope that most of the roster will be available. And most imporatntly, if Williams can’t go, the Tigers have depth ready.

“Probably Jared Smith would be the first one to pop off my head as a guy. You know we are going to play Chris (Murray), Keyron (Crawford), Keldric (Faulk), and probably Jared would be the next guy,” stated Freeze. And on the flip side, Auburn’s defense looks poised to handle the challenge, even if rotations are needed. Now, the question is: can Hugh Freeze’s Auburn topple the Sooners?