Alabama sophomore quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is ahead of schedule in being able to perform some things on the field after suffering an injury to his left hand (index finger), thanks to the program’s medical staff. Despite him being rushed to University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center following practice on last week, the five-star has progressed strongly and head coach Nick Saban was quick to thank the team doctors on Tuesday.
“Tua has made a very nice recovery from his hand,” Saban said.
“Dr. Cain and our medical staff do a fantastic job here. We probably have the best medical staff and best group of medical people. Dr. James Andrews, Dr. Cain, their whole group of people have done a phenomenal job with so many of the players here. I guess it’s a little bit like having insurance. It does not matter what kind of insurance you have until you have to make a claim but these guys are fabulous and when we get guys hurt, they know how to work with them.”
In terms of how much progress Tagovailoa has made, Saban said the Hawaiian native was comfortable in handing the ball off, gripping the football and throwing it some.
“It’s amazing the technology that we have now and the expertise that our people have in doing a great job with our players,” Saban said. “We are really excited that Tua is making a good recovery and he has a positive attitude about it. We feel good about where he’s heading.”
Tagovailoa’s play in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game – 166 passing yards, three touchdowns – delivered Alabama to a 26-23 win over Georgia. He’s the favorite to win the starting job for the Crimson Tide over two-year starter and 2016 Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Year, Jalen Hurts.
While the quarterback battle should continue into fall practice, Tide fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing Tagovailoa is fine.
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.
