“Alabama Football Navigates Preseason Scrimmage Unscathed, DeBoer Focused on Health Ahead of Season”
Alabama football completed its first preseason scrimmage on Saturday without any significant injuries, according to head coach Kalen DeBoer. The practice, held behind closed doors at Bryant-Denny Stadium, went smoothly.
“We’re staying relatively healthy, just the usual fall camp bumps and bruises,” DeBoer commented afterward. “Some guys got dinged up, but nothing unexpected.”
The team began camp in good health overall, although wide receiver Jalen Hale is likely out for the season due to a severe leg injury from the spring. Freshman defensive back Zabien Brown has been practicing with a protective club on his left hand, but DeBoer noted that it’s a minor issue and the club will be removed soon.
When asked about his primary concern for the team, DeBoer emphasized the importance of avoiding injuries as the 2024 season approaches. “Probably just staying healthy,” he said. “I feel good about where we are. This was our biggest scrimmage with the most plays. Next week’s scrimmage will have fewer plays, but it’ll still be solid. But staying healthy is key. We need all the reps.”
During Saturday’s scrimmage, Alabama ran 102 plays, with 81 split almost evenly between the first and second teams. DeBoer highlighted the importance of keeping the team healthy, especially given the mix of veterans and young players in key positions. “We have some veterans, but we also have a lot of young guys who need to develop and are crucial to the team,” DeBoer said. “Those reps are invaluable, not just for them, but for building trust as a whole unit.”
Alabama will return to the field on Sunday for an open Fan Day practice at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Tide’s season opener is set for Aug. 31 against Western Kentucky in Tuscaloosa. As he prepares for his first game after replacing Nick Saban, DeBoer expressed satisfaction with how the players are taking care of their health. “The guys are doing a great job with their bodies,” he said. “They’re spending extra time in the training room, and before and after practice, they’re doing what they should. Those championship habits are becoming ingrained, and you can see them placing importance on it.”