The Kentucky native is starting to blossom as a sophomore. Alabama running back Damien Harris totaled his second 100-yard rushing performance of his career last week against Ole Miss. While patience and vision netted him 138 yards against Southern California, toughness earned him 144 yards rushing at Oxford, Miss.
He had some success against the Rebels’ defensive front in the first half, until offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin decided to commit more to the run game. Harris responded to Kiffin’s choice by ripping off runs of 17 and 67 yards in the third and fourth quarter. He displayed much strength on a 67-yard burst in the third quarter, shedding multiple tackles in trying to reach the end zone. Harris’ effort excited both Crimson Tide fans and CBS’ commentators, Verne Lundquist and Gary Danielson, despite him getting tackle at the one-yard line.
Damien Harris (@DHx34) with a big run. 🅰🏈🐘🌊 #BAMAvsOleMiss #RollTide pic.twitter.com/flIww143yy
— ™ Iท βα๓a ไ ㅜяบรт ™ (@BamaPride143) September 18, 2016
After being tracked down by Adoree’ Jackson and Terry Caldwell, Harris finally got into the scoring column against Mississippi. He was credited with a one-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, stretching Alabama’s lead to 41-30. The 5-foot-11, 214-pound back finished with 18 carries, averaging nine yards per attempt. He’s fifth in the Southeastern Conference in rushing, recording 327 yards and a score on 36 tries.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
