Injuries can derail the high hopes of any college football team. Even a team as deep in talent and experience as Alabama Football can face major challenges if starters at key positions incur serious injuries.
There are six positions or position groups in which the Alabama Crimson Tide must have backups capable of playing at a high level. Two position groups that can overcome starter injuries are wide receiver and running back. Both position groups are so deep in talent that even an injury loss of a superstar like Ryan Williams would not derail Alabama's championship chances.
Most Key Alabama Football Backups
As Fall Camp begins soon, much attention will be given to the Crimson Tide's quarterback competition. Kalen DeBoer continues to stress that all three guys are in contention for QB1. Selecting the QB2 is just as important. Assuming Ty Simpson gains the starting role, Austin Mack or Keelon Russell must become ready to lead the offense should Simpson go down. They don't lack talent, but talent does not automatically transfer to composure and leadership.
Every position on the offensive line must have a dependable backup, but the two tackle positions are where Alabama could most suffer from losing its starters. High potential or not, no backup tackle could likely match the performance of Kadyn Proctor. Right tackle, with Wilkin Formby the expected starter, is also a key injury position. At tackle, the two guys next up will probably be freshman Jackson Lloyd and transfer sophomore Arkel Anugwom.
Sticking with offensive positions, Josh Cuevas and Danny Lewis Jr. are projected starters. Behind them at the position are transfers Brody Dalton and Jack Sammarco, followed by a pair of freshmen, Marshall Pritchett and Kaleb Edwards. Dalton has playing experience at UAB and Troy, but in four seasons, he has caught just 24 passes. In 13 games as a West Virginia freshman, Sammarco caught one pass. Both must prove to be effective blockers at this level.