D'haquille Williams expected to miss Georgia game
AUBURN – D'haquille Williams is expected to miss at least this week's game against rival Georgia, though a return later in the season is possible, if not likely.
Auburn's top wide receiver suffered a right knee injury on a pass play with 13:29 to go in the second quarter.of Saturday's loss to Texas A&M. Williams went to the locker room on crutches before halftime but returned to the sideline for the second half.
A source with knowledge of the situation indicated Williams would be able to return this season, though when is unclear. According to a report by AL.com, Williams suffered a sprained MCL and would miss this week's game at rival Georgia.
"We're still unsure at this time, hopeful for the best," Auburn offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee said. "I think coach will probably have more information on that by the time he talks Tuesday."
Auburn would not confirm the extent of Williams' injury, though tight end C.J. Uzomah said his teammate was doing well.
"He's doing fine," Uzomah said. "He's great. He's in great spirits and we know we'll have him back soon."
Should Williams, who leads Auburn with 38 receptions for 609 yards and five touchdowns, miss Saturday's game it would be a significant blow to the Tigers' receiving corps.
Melvin Ray had his first catch in seven games while filling in for Williams, who was unavailable for interviews.
"It's a big loss, but it's like every other position, somebody has to step up," Lashlee said. "I thought (Saturday) night that Ricardo (Louis) stepped up and made some plays for us. I thought Melvin Ray stepped up. C.J. stepped up. That's just what good teams have to do. Guys have to step up and fill those voids."
Sophomore Tony Stevens, who has just one catch for 12 yards all season, is "definitely" being considered as well.
Uzomah is split out in Williams' role on occasion, but he doesn't see himself filling Duke's shoes.
"I don't feel like I'm taking over that responsibility by any stretch of imagination," Uzomah said. "I feel like I'm just out there doing what I need to do to help the team win and to help our offense."