Alabama football is 5-1 heading into its homecoming matchup against Arkansas.
Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide return to Bryant-Denny Stadium after capturing a 26-20 victory over Texas A&M at Kyle Field to gain control of the SEC West. The game is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. CT via ESPN versus the Razorbacks, but Coach Saban addressed reporters Wednesday at the Southeastern Conference Teleconference. He updated the media on two marquee injuries ahead of Saturday’s meeting with the Razorbacks. Malachi Moore and James Burnip suffered injuries against the Aggies.
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Saban has both guys as ‘game-time decisions’ for Arkansas.
“We’re preparing as if neither guy would be able to play, but I can’t say that emphatically,” Saban said.
Moore, a senior defensive back, is the most experienced player in Alabama’s secondary.
He has 29 tackles, four tackles for loss, two pass breakups, a quarterback hurry, and an interception. The Trussville (Ala.) native is the best communicator on defense and has enhanced his draft value. Earl Little II, a redshirt freshman, is the one to watch if Moore does not play. Little, a former four-star in Alabama’s 2022 recruiting class, played in all six games and has two tackles. The 6-foot-1, 186-pounder has the physical tools, instincts, ball skills, and coverage abilities to operate at ‘Star’ in the nickel defense.
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Burnip, a senior punter, is having an incredible season.
He increased his average yards on punts from 42.3 (2022) to 48.7. Burnip, a native Australian, has been excellent with pinning opposing offenses inside their 20-yard line. His excellence has helped the Tide’s defense become dangerous, especially in the second half of games. Will Reichard, a fifth-year senior, replaced Burnip against the Aggies. The reliable kicker totaled 165 punting yards on four attempts. He averaged 41.3 yards per attempt versus Texas A&M and dropped one boot inside the 20.
Reichard or Connor Talty (freshman) could replace Burnip if he cannot go.
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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.
