Press Conference

Defensive end Dee Ford (left knee injury) and “Star” Justin Garrett (left foot sprain), who both sat out against Washington State, were back at practice Monday. Naturally, it led to questions about their availability for this Saturday’s game. Gus Malzahn kept his comments curt on the matter. “We’re hoping,” Auburn’s head coach said. The status of Jeff Whitaker isn’t as murky. He’ll be out for an extended period of time after injuring his right knee and undergoing surgery last week. The senior defensive tackle was seen on crutches prior to kickoff last Saturday. At this point, Malzahn said Whitaker is…