Auburn’s fastest wide receiver could miss the season-opener vs Oregon, per reports.

Sophomore Anthony Schwartz injured his hand during a blocking drill in Auburn’s practice on Sunday, and will need surgery, per 24/7 Sports.

AL.com reports that surgery is not officially decided upon, and evaluations are ongoing.  Should Schwartz need surgery, it remains unclear the time table for a return or how many practices he would miss and what level of participation he could have in those practices upon return.  But it sounds like the major concern is whether or not the Tigers’ top speed threat will be available to play against the Ducks on August 31st.

What does it mean for Oregon?  The Ducks defense could be given a reprieve from game-planning against one of the country’s top speed threats.  Schwartz scored 7 total touchdowns last season as a true freshman for the Tigers (5 rushing, 2 receiving) while amassing 568 total yards.  He was particularly dangerous in the fly-sweep/perimeter run game and as a deep threat in the passing attack.

Schwartz runs track at Auburn as well, and twice set the school freshman record in the 60-meter dash.  His replacement is likely Eli Stover, who was injured the majority of last season, playing in four games.

The Ducks were ranked No.13 in the Preseason Amway Coaches Poll, while Auburn was ranked No.16.

 

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