Upon becoming friends in the 2017 recruiting cycle, they did everything together.
Both came to the University of Alabama on a plane. The two would often face-time each other, prior to handing Nick Saban their verbal commitments. They were instrumental in the Crimson Tide’s run to a College Football Playoff National Championship as freshmen and in the aftermath of it, one decided to travel to the place that made the other’s culture unique.
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Even with the love he has for his younger brother – Taulia Tagovailoa – and the trio of wide receivers signed with him, Najee Harris and Tua Tagovailoa have always been two closest players on the team.
Harris has seen his best friend encounter multiple injuries – including hand, knee and both ankles, but he seemed to constantly persevere with toughness and come out stronger.
On last week, the California native witnessed something that shook him.
He saw his friend in anguish, pain and in more disappointment than ever. Tagovailoa suffered a right hip injury versus Mississippi State.
He should not have been in the game, seeing how he was not healthy from ankle surgery, but Saban didn’t have the heart to say no and sit him down.
The injury happened in the second quarter and for the junior quarterback, it was the idea of failing his teammates and coaches that ached more than the injury.
While it was confirmed via Dr. Lyle Cain – Orthopedic Surgeon for the team – that Tagovailoa is ‘expected’ to make a full recovery, he will miss the remainder of the season.
With two games left on the regular season schedule and the potential of the CFP still alive, Alabama will look for Harris to pick up the pieces and become the focal point on offense.
His predecessor, Derrick Henry, went through a similar situation in 2015.
After sustaining a broken leg against Ole Miss in 2014, no one knew how effective Kenyan Drake would be in his return. Henry knew he had to carry the team and he made preparations (both mind and body) to navigate the program to a national championship.
Even with full confidence in Mac Jones, Harris must do it for Tagovailoa.
Since the meeting with Southern Mississippi, the 230-pounder has found his groove.
He’s totaled four 100-yard rushing performances, with three against Southeastern Conference schools.
No one knows what former Tide standout, Shaun Alexander imparted into Harris before LSU, but it had the former five-star playing at a different level. He turned in a career outing versus the Tigers, collecting 146 yards rushing with two scores (one receiving) on 19 carries.
The surge continued over the weekend as Harris had 88 yards rushing, 51 yards receiving and four touchdowns in Alabama’s 38-7 win over the Bulldogs. Offensive coordinator, Steve Sarkisian must establish him as the primary focus and build confidence in Jones as he goes.
One of the most chilling statements from Saban came in questioning his team on whether it wants to continue or end the dynasty.
With Tagovailoa out, this is a gut check moment.
He made the offense special, but the Tide has to dig deep and find its driving force.
The time is now for Harris to put the unit on his back. He chimes in with 876 yards rushing, 266 yards receiving and 15 total scores.
Everyone will carry the mindset of playing for Tagovailoa; however, it will be a deeper meaning for Harris.
The offense belongs to him and he’s ready.
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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.
