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Practice report: Injury updates, UA gearing up for homecoming vs. Missouri

Alabama HC Nick Saban talking to ESPN's Tom Luginbill after a game in 2018
© Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Despite an offensive fire show and a pick-six from defensive back Shyheim Carter, Alabama head football coach Nick Saban was not pleased with the team’s efforts on defense versus Arkansas on last week.

Even in a 65-31 victory, he said a team does not really dominate its opponent when it gives up 31 points. Saban and his defensive coordinators – Tosh Lupoi and Pete Golding – will work tirelessly this week in practice to improve the communication. 

In all its attempts to escape the injury bug, it seems as though medical mishaps are starting to become a fabric of the Crimson Tide’s program. After having its linebacker position decimated with injuries in 2017, Alabama is down five defensive players entering week seven. 

During Monday’s pressure, Saban said junior cornerback Trevon Diggs will be out “indefinitely” with a broken foot and tight end Kedrick James will miss some time because of a high ankle sprain. The program is already without Terrell Lewis (knee), Christopher Allen (knee) and Daniel Wright (shoulder).  

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 @CoachingMSmith.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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