Key Defender Not Expected To Play For USC Trojans Against Minnesota

The USC Trojans took care of business last week against the Wisconsin Badgers, but unfortunately one of their key defensive players went down with injury.

Linebacker Eric Gentry went down late in the game and walked off the field under his own power, but he was later seen being carted to the locker room.

We did not receive an update from head coach Lincoln Riley during the week and during his media availability on Thursday, but it seemed like a long shot that he would play after not practicing on Tuesday or Wednesday. Now it appears, that he is indeed out for today’s game against the Minnesota Gophers.

USC Trojans Linebacker Eric Gentry Expected To Be Out Vs Minnesota

According to Matt Zenitz of 247 Sports , Eric Gentry will be OUT.

This will be a big loss for the Trojans as Gentry has been an absolute monster this season so far. Aside from his emotional leadership, he has been all over the field and has made some critical plays in big-time moments.

So far this season Gentry has recorded 46 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 5 passes broken up, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 blocked kick.

Gentry had been on a rotation with Mason Cobb at the WILL position, so expect to see a heavier dose of Cobb this week.

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Freshman Elijah Newby could get some reps, and former safety Anthony Beavers could also get some reps as he transitions to the linebacker position.

In other injury news, there has yet to be an update on starting safety Akili Arnold, and wide receiver Makai Lemon.

Arnold seemed to be trending to play, so we will update you on that at game time. I would expect Lemon to miss another week, but we will also give an update once we know more.

***Update: Akili Arnold is dressed for warmups, which would indicate that he will play in some capacity for today’s game.

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