TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– When one is held out for multiple games, it feels good to touch the football again and try to perform some rehab as you try to recapture 100 percent health.
Sophomore running back Josh Jacobs dealt with a hamstring injury during the later portion of fall practice.
He was relegated to the sidelines for two scrimmages and two regular season games – Florida State and Fresno State – before seeing three to four plays versus Colorado State.
After he posted nearly 600 yards rushing (567) last season with four touchdowns on 85 carries, many Crimson Tide fans expected the three-star from Oklahoma to have an increased role.
Jacobs has progressed well through some practices; however, Alabama head coach Nick Saban did not give the media a confirmed notion on whether he will play more this weekend.
“He is what he is,” Saban said Wednesday on Jacobs. “We didn’t want to play him too much in that game [Colorado State]. We wanted him to try and feel his way back. He’s done more in practice this week, so hopefully he’ll make a bigger contribution in the game.”
Along with his prowess as a rusher, Jacobs’ versatility in receiving and pass protection is second to none. He caught 14 passes for 152 yards as a true freshman, while providing quarterback Jalen Hurts time to execute passes during pressure situations. His elusiveness out the backfield and between the tackles gives offensive coordinator Brian Daboll another tool to exploit defenses.
Despite Vanderbilt carrying a good defense into its conference opener against Alabama, should the Tide be able to establish the rushing attack early – it will be difficult for the Commodores.
Commentators Brad Nessler and Gary Danielson will have the call on via CBS on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. (CT) from Vanderbilt Stadium in Nashville.
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.
