Clemson will be missing a big piece along its defensive line against Alabama.

All-American defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who was suspended last week due to a failed NCAA drug test, won’t be available to play against the Crimson Tide, Clemson announced Thursday.

It’s a tough blow for the Tigers.

Lawrence, a first-team AFCA All-American and first-team All-ACC selection, posted 44 tackles and 7.5 stops for a loss in the Tigers' first 13 games.

Matt Zenitz is an Alabama and Auburn reporter for the Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @mzenitz.