A year ago the Tigers were hit hard on the offensive side, losing quarterbacks Patrick Byrne and Will Hudgens to broken legs early in the season.

This year the injury bug has jumped sides of the ball.

With the injuries mounting on the defensive side of the ball, particularly at the linebacker position, it may not be long before the Tigers are forced to recruit from the offensive side of the ball.

Earlier this year, during preseason camp, the Tigers moved linebacker Greg Hinds to fullback, but with injuries to linebackers Quinton McCrary and Sam Brewer — and losing linebacker Mike Snyder for the season after the Ole Miss game — Hinds may have to make the shift back.

In Tuesday’s practice, Rod Smith moved from free safety, where he’d been backing up Brandon McDonald, to outside linebacker.