Auburn Safety Sylvester Smith called for targeting, will miss first half of Iron Bowl
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Auburn safety Sylvester Smith was called for targeting on a play early in the 2nd half of Week 13’s matchup against Mercer. Since it was called in the 2nd half, Smith will miss the remainder of today’s game as well as the first half of the Iron Bowl next week.
Smith had 2 tackles on the afternoon, as well as 1 pass deflection. Not exactly what you want in a blowout win over an FCS opponent.
Smith has struggled some in coverage this season, but the Munford, Alabama native is an excellent tackler — which is especially important against an athletically gifted Alabama roster.
The Tigers get the Crimson Tide at home, and as Florida State proved already this season, Alabama could struggle against a raucous environment. The Tide are also a little inconsistent, with wins over Georgia and Vanderbilt but losses to the Seminoles and Oklahoma, despite the fact the Sooners scored just one offensive touchdown. A strong defensive effort getting to Alabama’s offense is the key, and that job is made tougher without a top safety on the field to set the tone.
The Iron Bowl is set to kick off next Saturday at 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
