Peter Woods injury: Clemson HC offers insight on star defender’s availability
Peter Woods was injured when he was hit below the knees in the first half of Clemson's win over Appalachian State on Sept. 7. Although the defensive tackle was limited for the rest of the game, the 21st-ranked Tigers had an open week in Week 3.
On Tuesday, coach Dabo Swinney talked about several injuries, including Woods, a Freshman All-American according to several outlets last season, was listed as a starter in the Clemson depth chart released on Monday.
"He's been at practice; he hasn't missed one yet," Swinney said. "He's been out there every day, grinding, working. He stayed here all weekend (during the open week), as a matter of fact, just to continue to work on his rehab."
Woods is an important part of the Clemson Tigers defensive line. He is 6-foot-3, 315 pounds and a huge presence that helps the defense function.
Woods' practice availability is a strong indicator that he will be available for Clemson's Week 4 matchup against NC State.
Peter Woods situation ahead of NC State in Week 4
Clemson needs to take advantage of the rest it had during its open week to have a strong performance in Week 4. The Tigers opened the season with a 34-3 loss to Georgia, but that can be forgiven considering the Bulldogs are currently the No. 2 team in the nation. The Tigers then bounced back with a 66-20 win over Appalachian State.
For the Tigers to keep their momentum going, they will need Peter Woods on the defensive side of the ball. Woods is a star player for Clemson and looked like one in his only full game this season. He recorded six tackles in Week 1, including five solo efforts. Additionally, he was credited with 2.5 tackles for loss and his first career sack.
Stats like those against an offense as dynamic as Georgia's are impressive. He is coming off a season where he had 26 tackles, including 13 solo efforts, three tackles for loss and a forced fumble.
Fortunately for Clemson, it looks like the extra time to recover will allow Woods to start this week. He is no longer listed on the injury report and should be available for coach Dabo Swinney against NC State.