Steve Spurrier is frustrated with ‘star’ DE Jadeveon Clowney

Graham Watson

Jadeveon Clowney’s ailments are starting to wear on South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier.

Clowney, a Heisman candidate, missed Saturday’s game against Kentucky because of bruised ribs. And Spurrier had no idea his supposed star player was going to miss the game until Clowney informed him.

"I will just say he told me he couldn’t play,” Spurrier said of how he learned Clowney wouldn’t dress.

Clowney missed practice on Thursday, but defensive coordinator Lorenzo Ward told media he thought Clowney would play. Clowney was even announced with the starters prior to the game.

But he strolled out of the tunnel without his pads and Spurrier couldn’t help but sound off about Clowney’s decision.

"If he wants to play, we will welcome him to come play for the team if he wants," Spurrier said.

Can’t blame Spurrier for showing his frustration with Clowney. He was supposed to be a star defensive end that could compete for the Heisman Trophy. But through five games this season, Clowney has complained of various ailments. He was sick before the North Carolina and Central Florida games. He’s been working through bone spurs in his right foot, an injury he’s nursed since high school. And now he has bruised ribs.

All of that amounts to just 12 tackles and two sacks for the reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year.

Oh, and one very unhappy Ol’ Ball Coach.

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