Alabama tight end Danny Lewis Jr. is one of the guys stepping up in the absence of Josh Ford, and he showed what he can do during the 21-6 win over Vanderbilt.
Ford suffered a knee injury against LSU last Saturday, and the Crimson Tide worked Lewis Jr. into the mix more this week because of it.
“I told Danny earlier in the week that this is his opportunity now,” DeBoer said. “He’s not been around at this time of year, last year for sure and much of the year before, so, big opportunity for him.”
Lewis Jr. has appeared in games for the Crimson Tide this season and has contributed to the overall physicality of the Alabama tight end room. On Saturday, Lewis Jr. did his job as a blocker and got involved in the passing game too.
Despite the fact that Alabama’s offense was sputtering at times, Lewis Jr. was able to haul in two passes for 22 yards. His longest reception went for 13 yards thanks to his effort after the catch, muscling through defenders and powering forward for more yards.
“It was good to get a lot of those reps today, and we’ll continue to work him into the mix because yeah, we miss Josh [Ford] and just the physical presence that he brings, but other guys are definitely more than capable,” DeBoer said.
Before the season started, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb labeled Lewis Jr. as the best story of camp because of the way he’s battled through injuries and fought his way back. Now, Lewis Jr. is in a position to be a reliable player each Saturday for the Crimson Tide.
