Report: Clemson WR Joseph Ngata out vs. Pittsburgh due to COVID-19 protocol

The Clemson Tigers will be on the road Saturday afternoon against a top-25 opponent and they found out on Friday that they'll be without their top receiver.

Just over 24 hours before the Tigers (4-2) take on No. 23 Pittsburgh (5-1), it was reported by The Athletic that third-year wideout Joseph Ngata would miss the game after being placed in COVID-19 protocols. Ngata is Clemson's leading receiver this season with 18 receptions for 352 yards, and he's averaging a robust 19.6 yards per catch to go along with one receiving touchdown.

The Clemson Insider added that center Hunter Rayburn, who missed the team's victory last week against Syracuse, will be out against Pittsburgh due to COVID-19 protocols as well. 

Ngata may be joined by multiple other wide receivers on the sideline for Saturday's game, as E.J. Williams recently underwent a knee scope and missed the contest against the Orange, while Frank Ladson is listed as day-to-day with a groin injury.

Ngata's 19.6 yards per reception are fifth-most in the ACC this season and he's already set career-highs in receptions and receiving yards. He played in 13 games during his freshman year, but was limited to four games in 2020.

The Tigers and Panthers are scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.