Auburn's Da'Shawn Womack Likely Sidelined for Home Opener
Auburn edge rusher Da'Shawn Womack was seen in street clothes before the Southern Miss game, indicating he will not play due to a lower-body injury from Week 1. Coach Alex Golesh had listed him as day-to-day, but the team appears to be holding him out until SEC play begins against Florida. Jared Smith is expected to fill the BUCK position in his absence.
Womack's absence stems from a lower-body issue sustained during Auburn's Week 1 victory over Baylor, where he logged just one tackle before exiting mid-game. The Ole Miss transfer has now suited up for three SEC programs across his collegiate career, beginning at LSU in 2023 before spending last season with the Rebels, including their College Football Playoff semifinal appearance. Sophomore Jared Smith, who recorded half a tackle for loss and an interception against Baylor quarterback DJ Lagway, is expected to start at the BUCK position in Womack's place. Fellow edge rusher Chris Murray, also injured last week, was cleared to play. The home opener was delayed by lightning, with kickoff rescheduled for 7:50 p.m. central on SEC Network.
This injury decision reflects a broader trend in college football where teams prioritize conference play over early-season non-conference matchups, potentially affecting player availability in games fans expect stars to appear. Auburn supporters attending the home opener may feel shortchanged, while the coaching staff's cautious approach could influence how other programs manage similar injuries. The outcome may also shape SEC title race dynamics, as Womack's recovery timeline directly impacts Auburn's defensive depth heading into a pivotal matchup with Florida.