TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — It is fun to see Alabama head coach Nick Saban in a good mood, even when it comes at joking the fashion sense of others or poking fun at a football beat writer.
While there were not any new injuries to report, Saban did touch on rehabilitation process of linebackers Christian Miller and Terrell Lewis at his pressure on Wednesday. Both players were projected to have marquee seasons this year, before suffering injuries versus Florida State.
“All I will say is Christian Miller and Terrell Lewis is in what they call the functional phase of rehab, but not medically cleared to play,” Saban said. “So, as they go through this continues work on the field and so forth, at some point in time I guess they’ll get medically cleared.”
Miller, a junior, had reached his target weight goal of 240 pounds and learned the entire defensive system over the summer prior to tearing his biceps muscle.
Lewis, on the other hand, was the one that intercepted freshman quarterback Tua Tagovailoa during the spring game and returned the pick for a 60-yard touchdown. He sustained an elbow injury to start the year.
Despite the hopeful speculation of Saban and others being hopeful of the two returning to make an impact on defense, the Crimson Tide’s head man said the decision is not left up to him.
“As I have always said before, that’s a medical decision that our guys will make when the time comes when they feel they’re able to get back out there and maybe be able to play,” Saban said.
It has been able hold serve through 10 games, but at some point, having Miller and Lewis or at least one of the two will be beneficial for the Tide moving forward.
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.
