Alabama football hopes to have all hands on deck this week.
Following an easy 56-0 win over Mercer at Bryant-Denny Stadium, head coach Nick Saban took the podium on Monday to open his comments on the Auburn Tigers. Along with that, he also carried the liberty of updating the press on injuries to six Crimson Tide marquee players.
Outside linebackers Christian Miller and Terrell Lewis, who have not played since week one against Florida State, remain in the final phase of functional rehab.
As for inside backer Mack Wilson, he was seen sporting a walking boot at the game and has not practiced per Saban.
While Ross Pierschbacher (ankle) and Andy Pappanastos (hamstring) are listed as day-to-day, Minkah Fitzpatrick (hamstring) will practice this week. Pierschbacher, like the trio of Miller, Lewis and Wilson, has not been cleared by the medical staff to practice yet.
The craziest thing in all of this was Saban’s response on the three linebackers.
“I’m not saying those guys are out for the game, but I’m not able to say they’ll play,” he said in regards to a possibility of getting Miller, Lewis and Wilson back for the Iron Bowl.
It is perfect gamesmanship as Alabama does not want to reveal its hand; however, Miller happens to be the one that multiple reports have stated a return for this week.
Freshman linebacker Dylan Moses did an exceptional job against Mercer, but Tide fans will leap for joy if it happens to see Miller or a combination of all three guys return.
Despite the experience of Pierschbacher up front, seeing J.C. Hassenauer emerge in the last two games makes the call at left guard easier to make.
Jordan-Hare Stadium will be rocking on Saturday as the SEC West crown and more College Football Playoff madness shall be determined.
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.
