A week ago, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer provided a positive injury update on third-year Wolf LB Qua Russaw. DeBoer stated then that Russaw wouldn't play against LSU, but would be returning "sooner than later."
That sooner could be this weekend against Oklahoma. According to DeBoer, Russaw is "questionable" for Saturday's matchup against the Sooners.
“We’re unsure at this point, probably in that questionable range right now at this minute," DeBoer said about Russaw on Wednesday's SEC Coaches teleconference. "He's coming along nicely. I know I said that a week ago. I would consider it at least on, if not ahead of schedule, from what we originally thought. He’s done a great job, and he’s getting closer and closer, so, just see how he feels here the rest of the week.”
Alabama's first availability report of the week will be released on Wednesday night. The expectation based on DeBoer's comments will be that Russaw will be listed as questionable. If he responds well to a ramp-up in activity the rest of the week, the redshirt sophomore could see his return to action this weekend.
Russaw suffered a broken foot during Alabama's win over Georgia at the end of September. He had surgery shortly after the game and has been out since then.
Qua Russaw would provide a nice boost for Alabama's defense
Yhonzae Pierre's emergence likely reduces Russaw to an off-the-bench role the remainder of the season, but there's still plenty of snaps available for him upon his return.
The most exciting prospect of Russaw's return is getting both of them on the field in obvious passing situations to rush the passer. Pierre is Alabama's leader in sacks with six. He has blossomed into one of the most feared edge rushers in the nation in recent weeks in place of Russaw.
Russaw's absence has seen youngsters Noah Carter and Justin Hill see a dramatic increase in snaps. His return would eat into those, though Pierre is likely to see the same amount he's seen.
Against Oklahoma - in a game many expect to be close with a thin margin for error for both teams - any additional impact player could make a huge difference.
Russaw's status will be something to monitor throughout the week as the Crimson Tide continues to get ready for this Saturday's showdown against the Sooners.