CLEMSON, S.C. — The Clemson Tigers will be without reserve guard Trent Howard for their upcoming matchup against the South Carolina Gamecocks, as he has sustained a torn ACL in his left knee during practice this week.

Head coach Dabo Swinney shared the news of Howard’s injury on Wednesday, expressing his deep sympathy for the player.

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 295 pounds, Howard is a fifth-year graduate who has mainly served as a backup throughout the season. However, due to injuries affecting Clemson’s offensive line, he has had to step into a starting position when necessary.

“My heart breaks for him,” Swinney stated about Howard, who was thrust into action in a crucial situation. In a recent game against Pittsburgh, Howard came in during the second snap after fellow lineman Elyjah Thurmon was injured on the first play. Unfortunately, Thurmon suffered an ankle injury that required surgical intervention and will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Just last Saturday, Howard made his fourth career start in a decisive 51-14 victory over The Citadel. He was set to take on a starting role again if Marcus Tate, who has missed the last three games due to injury, was unable to participate. As of this week, Howard was noted as a backup for both right and left guard on the team’s depth chart.

The Tigers, currently holding a 9-2 record, are gearing up to face their rivals, the Gamecocks, who stand at 8-3, this Saturday.