4. Injuries Devastation, Again
Last year, injuries decimated the Tide’s defense. Linebackers Christian Miller, Terrell Lewis, Rashaan Evans and Anfernee Jennings, were all injured in just the first game. Evans and Jennings returned a few weeks later, but Miller and Lewis did not play again until the Iron Bowl.
Senior linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton suffered a season-ending injury against LSU. Mack Wilson was hurt as well. Lastly, true freshman Dylan Moses injured himself during practice for the Sugar Bowl.
Alabama had a string of bad luck last year with injuries. Their depth at linebacker faced challenges in the latter part of the season.
Associate Athletic Director of Sports Medicine Jeff Allen and his staff have the player’s trust. Once a player is hurt, they realize they are in good hands. Former Alabama players C.J. Mosley, Jonathan Allen and Eddie Lacy have all reached out to Allen for his opinion on injuries. They understand he has their best interest in mind.
For the Tide, to win it all again this year, they cannot suffer that many injuries again especially to one position group. Entering a playoff run, the Tide is ordinarily healthy and because of that teams face Alabama at full strength.