Kalen DeBoer Provides Key Injury Updates for No. 8 Alabama Ahead of South Carolina Clash

No. 8 Alabama is gearing up for a high-stakes Saturday showdown against South Carolina, and head coach Kalen DeBoer has provided a crucial health update on several key members of the Crimson Tide roster. While the news was overwhelmingly positive for the offense, the defensive unit received a significant blow with the confirmation that reserve linebacker Cayden Jones is out for the remainder of the season.

Attention during the week has been focused on the backfield following the Tide’s recent victory over Florida State. Running backs EJ Crowell and Daniel Hill both exited that contest early, but DeBoer expects both to return to the field this weekend. Regarding Crowell, the coach stated that the staff “anticipates (Crowell) will be good to go by the weekend,” while adding that he expects Hill to be ready for action as well.

Furthermore, the Alabama offense could see an infusion of talent with the potential debuts of receiver Noah Rogers and running back AK Dear. Both players have been sidelined by injuries since the start of the season, but their return appears imminent. “AK and Noah will be available,” DeBoer confirmed. He noted that the two are progressing well in practice, though their specific workload will depend on their comfort level and the number of reps required to execute at a high level.

“We’ve got some other guys that are in those positions right now that are getting the job done,” DeBoer said. “I have no doubt these guys can come in and help us. ... We’re excited to have them back. I feel like they’re getting more and more confident.”

Alabama will host the Gamecocks at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on ESPN.