He was not playing second fiddle to Bo Scarbrough this time.
After turning in arguably the quietest 1,000-yard campaign last season, Alabama junior running back Damien Harris had every talent in his arsenal on display on Saturday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
He showed both speed and power in his attack versus Florida State, while proving on some plays that could effectively finish runs.
He led all backs with 73 yards rushing on nine carries, netting an average of 8.1 yards per attempt. Harris recorded two first down runs – including an 11-yard burst up the middle for a touchdown in the third quarter, to give the Crimson Tide a 21-7 lead.
Damien Harris (@DHx34) extends #Alabama's lead with this 11-yard TD run! #FSUvsBAMA pic.twitter.com/cpMI2Ev5Ag
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) September 3, 2017
Despite not reaching the end zone in last year’s opener versus University of Southern California, having Harris collect a score against the Seminoles in a 24-7 victory does a lot for his confidence moving forward. The Kentucky native would snatch an 11-yard pass from quarterback Jalen Hurts, and provided a game-changing play on special teams.
Damien Harris (@DHx34) flies in to block the punt for Alabama! #FSUvsBAMA pic.twitter.com/ImUFTaYDxt
— Chat Sports (@ChatSports) September 3, 2017
His blocked punt in the third quarter set up a field goal for Andy Pappanastos, which pushed the Tide’s lead to 13-7 prior to Harris getting the touchdown.
In a defensive slugfest, the five-star’s effort on special teams was one of a few situations that doomed Florida State.
Head coach Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll will return to the drawing board when it comes to finding some consistency, but the versatility of Harris gives top-ranked Alabama a 1-0 start.
The Crimson Tide will host Fresno State next week at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
