AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn safety Zac Etheridge has been released from the hospital two days after suffering a serious neck injury in the Tigers' 33-20 victory against Ole Miss.

"Our medical staff is optimistic he will make a full recovery," Auburn coach Gene Chizik said in a statement from the school.

Etheridge was immobilized after trying to tackle Rebels running back Rodney Scott in the first quarter Saturday. The crown of his helmet struck teammate Antonio Coleman in the shoulder.

He was taken to the East Alabama Medical Center for further evaluation before being transported to a Birmingham-area hospital Saturday night.

Chizik said Sunday night the junior would miss the remainder of the season but offered little else about his condition. It was announced during the game that Etheridge had use of his extremities, and AuburnSports.com reported Sunday that he has been able to walk.

Chizik did not know if Etheridge would return to the football field in the future.

Etheridge had 52 tackles in nine games this season, fourth most on the team.