Alabama Football: Surtain-less Tide and other Citrus Bowl news

Alabama football expects starting cornerback, Patrick Surtain II to return for the Citrus Bowl and other Crimson Tide practice news.

Starting Alabama football cornerback, Patrick Surtain II had to miss Saturday’s Crimson Tide practice. It was reported the Tide’s most experienced cornerback was unable to attend practice due to a family issue. Already down one starting cornerback due to Trevon Diggs’ decision to skip the Citrus Bowl, the Crimson Tide does not need to debut two new starting corners against Michigan.

Surtain is expected to return to the team soon and play in the Citrus Bowl. Crimson Tide sophomore, Josh Jobe has been practicing as the new starter, replacing Diggs at cornerback. On Saturday, the other first unit cornerback was redshirt freshman, Jalyn Armour-Davis. The Alabama football staff has long been high on Armour-Davis’ potential but an injury sidelined his first season out of high school.

A few days ago, Surtain commented on his expectations for Josh Jobe as a starter.

"He’s brought a lot of fire to the defense when he’s on the field. It’s not new to him. He’s been out there before. I expect nothing less but great from him."

Speaking of cornerbacks. yesterday Nick Saban said Scooby Carter still has an opportunity to return to the Alabama football team next semester. Grades and class attendance have been rumored to be an issue for Carter. He responded to an Alabama football suspension by placing his name in the transfer portal. Hopefully, he will respond appropriately to Saban giving him another chance.

Based on practice reports, sophomore Chris Allen has done well as the newest linebacker starter for the Crimson Tide. Allen is stepping in for Terrell Lewis, who like Diggs, chose to skip the Citrus Bowl. A lesser-known freshman outside linebacker, King Mwikuta may be showing enough in bowl practice to rotate with Allen. Mwikuta has featured on special teams this season, appearing in nine Alabama football games.

The Crimson Tide practiced inside on Saturday, compliments of the UCF indoor facility. Check out the Twitter exchange below.

Another tweet was noticed Saturday. it is never too soon to start the countdown to next season.

Saturday’s practice was the third of six practices scheduled in Orlando. The Citrus Bowl will kick off shortly after noon on Wednesday.