Clemson coach Dabo Swinney today says starting linebacker James Skalski will be our for an extended period with a groin injury.
Skalski has tallied 27 tackles, 1.5 for loss, in 168 snaps over five games (four starts).
"That is a big loss for us," Swinney said. "He will miss a few games, unfortunately. It's in the groin area and we will have to see how he responds."
“We will get him back, I’m just not sure how many games he will miss,” Swinney said.
As for the backup, Jake Venables will be called on to fill the role in his father’s defense. Swinney noted that having Venables as a backup is a big deal for the Tigers.
“It’s huge. He did a great job last week. This is a game to have a guy like that-- they are a challenge. Thankful that we’ve got a veteran guy like Jake,” Swinney said.