Thoughts on the depth chart

Hey everyone. I said earlier that there were items to discuss regarding the depth chart. Let's do it.

1. Hot Carter not in the picture: I thought he seemed healthy last time I saw him on a practice field, so I'm not sure what to make of this. Chizik was asked about Carter and I found his answer intriguing:

   Again, I don’t go into the injury situation, but right now, we don’t anticipate him playing on Saturday.”

   Notice that he doesn't say it's an injury situation. Those are two separate statements.
   
   
2. Dee Ford as a backup: It's a misnomer. Sure, Ford technically is Antonio Coleman's backup. When Coleman comes off the field, though, don't look for Ford unless it's third-and-long. I think Zach Clayton and/or Nick Fairley will play that spot before Ford's name is discussed.
   
   
3. DeAngelo Benton as a backup: Not exactly. The depth chart presented below is based on a two-receiver set. That won't happen very often. When Auburn uses three wides, Benton will be in the game.
   
   
4. The second-tier linebackers: Ouch. I don't think Jonathan Evans is healthy. Harris Gaston is another freshman who missed time with an injury. Adam Herring practiced last week for the first time since November. I can't imagine Ted Roof feeling good about the situation here.
   
   
5. Eltoro Freeman: Is he ready to play at an acceptable level? We're supposed to talk with him tonight. I'll report back.

UNRELATED NOTE: I saw Eric Smith in front of the Athletic Complex this afternoon. He seemed in good spirits. Same for Aubrey Phillips.