Coming off a tough 17–10 season-opening loss to LSU, Clemson is dealing with more than just questions about execution. The Tigers are also monitoring the health of two of their most important playmakers as they prepare for Troy this Saturday.
Head coach Dabo Swinney addressed the status of wide receiver Antonio Williams and safety Khalil Barnes during his Tuesday press conference, labeling both players “day-to-day.”
Antonio Williams Working Back From Injury
Williams, Clemson’s veteran wideout and one of Cade Klubnik’s top targets, has been sidelined since the LSU game. Swinney noted that Williams has remained active in recovery and is pushing toward a return.
“He was over doing rehab stuff,” Swinney said. “We’ll just see where he is as the week goes on.”
The junior wideout led the ACC in touchdowns last season and is viewed as a critical piece of an offense still searching for rhythm. His availability could be a major factor against Troy.
Khalil Barnes’ Status Uncertain
Defensively, Clemson is also waiting on sophomore safety Khalil Barnes, who played a vital role in the secondary a year ago. Like Williams, Barnes is being monitored on a day-to-day basis, leaving his status uncertain for Saturday’s home matchup.
Looking Ahead
Swinney stopped short of ruling either player out but emphasized that their progress in practice this week will determine availability.
Clemson (0–1) faces Troy on Saturday at Memorial Stadium in what is being billed as a crucial bounce-back game. Getting Williams and Barnes back on the field could provide a much-needed boost as the Tigers try to avoid an early-season stumble.