Auburn defensive end Dee Ford's status for SEC opener still uncertain

AUBURN, Alabama -- Auburn defensive end Dee Ford's status for the SEC opener is still uncertain.

Auburn's sacks leader in 2012 (six) injured his left knee in mid-August and returned to practice last week, but did not dress Saturday for the Tigers' 38-9 victory against Arkansas State.

"We're going to err on the side of caution with Dee (Ford)," defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson said.

Auburn hosts Mississippi State in the teams' SEC opener Saturday (6 p.m., ESPN2).

Ford was the Tigers' first-team left defensive end entering preseason camp.

Coach Gus Malzahn said last week he was "hopeful" Ford would play Saturday against Arkansas State, but he did not return. Johnson said they have been "very cautious" with the injury.

A platoon of players have filled in for Ford. Senior Craig Sanders started the first two games and received help from Nosa Eguae. Freshmen Elijah Daniel and Carl Lawson have also seen time at the spot.

"Honestly, everybody has stepped up," said defensive end LaDarius Owens, "but Dee is a senior, he provides leadership, he provides, obviously, speed off the edge and experience. You can always use that, especially going into the SEC game. We've got a lot of young guys who haven't experienced that. This will be their first time going against SEC competition, so it'll be good to have Dee back."

Source: http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2013/09/auburn_defensive_end_dee_fords.html

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