Auburn suspends Stephen Roberts for opener vs. Clemson

Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn suspended defensive back Stephen Roberts for Saturday's season opener against Clemson on Tuesday, in the wake of his arrest on gun charges last week.

Roberts was arrested on charges of possessing a firearm without a permit and attempting to elude an officer - both misdemeanors in the state of Alabama.

The junior, who registered 26 tackles and three pass breakups in 2015, was expected to start at free safety for new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele's unit, but Malzahn said at his press conference that his status will be week to week.

The decision will make shutting down All-American quarterback Deshaun Watson even tougher in the home contest.