He wants this game and his teammates know it.
Barring a change of heart or something crazy, Saturday could be one of the final moments that running back Josh Jacobs represents the University of Alabama. His competition at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami (Fla.) is a legendary school in his home state of Oklahoma that did not offer him a scholarship, until Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide made the first move.
The 5-foot-10, 216-pounder naturally plays with something to prove, but facing the Sooners under the lights and palm trees has flipped a switch in him. As for his production this season, Jacobs was the Tide’s most complete back with 1,064 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns.
RELATED: Alabama RB Josh Jacobs readies himself for showdown with Oklahoma
While his 11 rushing scores is a team high, the addition of being a skillful return man has made Jacobs virtually unstoppable for defenses. Regardless of his size, he plays bigger and his leadership is recognized by everyone.
“All of our backs run angry, but Josh is just a phenomenal player,” Alabama linebacker Jamey Mosley said. “I am happy that he is on my team.”
In terms of this game, senior tight end Hale Hentges said the human pinball has “taken it to another level” in practice all week.
“He is more focused than usual,” Hentges said of Jacobs. “Not to say that he is never focused, but he will be playing against guys he knows. His runs and blocks have a little more anger added to them.”
Like a man possessed, Jacobs has looked to inflict pain on opposition all season.
As the team finished its walk-through on Thursday afternoon, continue to follow tdalabamamag.com as we keep you updated on Jacobs and his push to show Oklahoma what it missed out on.
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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.
