Texas A&M took a hit in the middle of a bruising matchup with Tennessee when Brandon Davis-Swain went down with an injury in the second half.
The sophomore defensive tackle, who has become one of the Aggies’ most important pieces up front, appeared to get rolled up on as the Volunteers ran a play in the middle of the third quarter. Davis-Swain, a transfer from Colorado, has been a disruptive force for Texas A&M all season and has repeatedly won his one-on-one battles against SEC offensive lines.
His absence was felt quickly. Tennessee began to find some success on interior runs after the injury, and the Vols also had the added boost of Faizon Brandon entering at quarterback, giving them another rushing threat. Texas A&M has leaned on Davis-Swain’s strength inside, and losing him even briefly changed the look of the defense.
The Aggies have been building into a stronger run defense as the season has gone on, and last week they turned in a strong showing against South Carolina’s top-ranked rushing attack. This game has been every bit as physical, and the strain showed late.
Even so, Texas A&M eventually managed to slow Tennessee down. Still, the difference with Davis-Swain on the field was noticeable, and the Aggies clearly need him back in the rotation as soon as possible.
The injury appeared to be to his hand, which would naturally affect his work in the interior. Texas A&M has already dealt with several injuries on offense, including TK Norman and other receivers, while Mario Craver has continued to battle even though the passing game has not done much this season.
Davis-Swain later returned to the game.
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Texas A&Ms Blackout Game Just Got Even More Intriguing
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