He was a game-time decision for last week’s matchup versus Tennessee, but Keon Sabb played through pain.
The former Michigan transfer is Alabama’s starter at free safety.
Kalen DeBoer updated Sabb’s status Monday in his press conference, stating the junior will be “down for a while” with a lower leg injury. Sabb, a New Jersey native, had two tackles and a pass breakup in the Crimson Tide’s 17-24 against the Volunteers.
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The 6-foot-1, 206-pounder has 39 total tackles, four pass breakups, and two interceptions through seven games.
Who does Alabama have to step up in his absence? Brayson “Bray” Hubbard is the immediate name to watch.
A sophomore from Ocean Springs, Miss., Hubbard came to the Tide as a four-star safety in 2023.
He helped Alabama to a Southeastern Conference Championship in 2023, but Hubbard is an enforcer as a tackler. The 6-foot-2, 204-pounder wants to make big plays and help the Tide win games. He has 20 tackles, including one for loss this season.
Hubbard should be considered the primary name to replace Sabb for now.
King Mack, a freshman transfer from Penn State, is another name. He is getting reps at “Husky” with DeVonta Smith and Red Morgan, but Mack can play safety. The 5-foot-10, 206-pounder from Miami (Fla.) has six tackles on the season.
It would not be a surprise if he becomes the option at free safety. Alabama could also move DeVonta Smith to free safety to replace Sabb and have either Morgan or Mack play Husky. Smith, a fourth-year defensive back, was in position to start at safety last season before an injury happened in fall camp. Jaylen Key became the starter in 2023 and Smith played some late in the year.
Alabama has options to fill in for Sabb, but who is the best choice?
We will see who the Tide goes with this week against Missouri.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
