Hairston status up in air

CLEMSON -- In the Clemson players' lounge, multiple flat screen televisions relay different motivational messages when not in use for other video purposes.

"Dream big," "It can be done (the 'T' crossed out of can't)" and "Believe" were some of the messages Monday. The motivational words might be specially crafted for left tackle Chris Hairston, whose status is in doubt for Saturday's home game against No. 15 TCU after spraining his left knee Saturday.

On Monday, Hairston walked without crutches or a brace as he met with the media. However, he had a noticeable limp.

"Anything is possible," Hairston said of his status. "Right now it is just day to day. I'm getting as much treatment as I can."

Hairston's presence is especially critical as the Tigers go up against a defense that includes All-American defensive end Jerry Hughes. Hughes led the nation with 15 sacks last season, and he already has five this year.

Though, the 6-3, 255-pound end usually lines up opposite right tackle, the loss of Hairston will have a ripple effect.

If Hairston can't go, Cory Lambert -- who struggled against Georgia Tech defensive end Derrick Morgan -- will likely often go one-on-one at left tackle as right tackle Landon Walker will likely need considerable help in the form of chip blocks and tight end cover to deal with Hughes.

Clemson tackles and tight end coach Danny Pearman was asked Monday how long Hairston might be out. Pearman noted he is not a doctor and had not seen the MRI.

He has seen video of Hughes.

"It's well documented that (Hughes) is an excellent player," Pearman said. "He runs well, he chases the ball down line extremely well ... I compare him to (Morgan), though Morgan is a little heavier."

Hairston said the injury most affects his lateral movement.

"Just being able to plant," Hairston said. "Side to side movement, really digging cleats in the ground (to push)."

Hairston said he must practice by Wednesday if he is going to play against TCU.

"You can't have your best game not being able to prepare," Hairston said. "I still have the utmost faith in (Lambert). I know Lambert can take that technique to field. (Against Georgia Tech) Morgan had his ears pinned back, we had to pass a lot ... (Lambert) was out of his element."

If Hairston can't go, behind Lambert and Walker will be David Smith, who switched from guard to tackle last week and Jamarcus Grant, whose status is in doubt as he has a fever.

Two Tigers honored

Clemson defensive end Ricky Sapp and kicker Richard Jackson earned weekly ACC honors Monday.

Sapp was named as the conference's defensive lineman of the week after recording three sacks -- more than his total output from last season -- against Boston College.

Jackson earned specialist honors after tying the school record with six field goals.