As Alabama prepares for its highly anticipated SEC matchup against LSU, both teams are dealing with notable injuries that could impact the outcome of the game.
The Crimson Tide and the Tigers are entering this contest with high stakes, and the injury report plays a crucial role in determining how each team will line up on the field.
Alabama Crimson Tide Injury Report
1. Jalen Milroe (Quarterback) – Day-to-Day (Ankle)
Alabama’s starting quarterback, Jalen Milroe, has been dealing with a mild ankle injury sustained during the team’s win over Tennessee. Milroe has continued to practice, though he’s been somewhat limited, and his status for the LSU game remains uncertain.
The coaching staff has expressed optimism, but they’ll monitor his condition closely as the game draws nearer. Should Milroe be unable to start, backup quarterback Ty Simpson is expected to take the reins under center.
2. Jermaine Burton (Wide Receiver) – Questionable (Hamstring)
Jermaine Burton, a key contributor to Alabama’s passing game, has been dealing with a hamstring strain that kept him out of some practice sessions this week.
Burton’s ability to stretch the field will be important for Alabama’s offense, and his availability could be a game-changer, especially against LSU’s aggressive secondary. The team has not ruled him out but will likely make a decision on his participation closer to game time.
3. Dallas Turner (Linebacker) – Probable (Groin)
Turner, one of Alabama’s most disruptive pass rushers, is dealing with a minor groin issue. Despite the injury, he’s practiced in full this week and is expected to play against LSU. His presence will be crucial for Alabama’s defense, especially in containing LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, who excels both in the air and on the ground.
4. Eli Ricks (Cornerback) – Out (Shoulder)
Alabama will be without cornerback Eli Ricks for this contest as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Ricks has been a valuable piece of the secondary rotation, and his absence could leave the Tide vulnerable to LSU’s potent passing attack. Alabama will likely lean on Kool-Aid McKinstry and others to fill the void in the defensive backfield.
LSU Tigers Injury Report
1. Jayden Daniels (Quarterback) – Full Participation (Knee)
LSU’s dynamic quarterback, Jayden Daniels, has been nursing a knee injury that sidelined him briefly during their last outing. However, Daniels has fully participated in practice this week and is expected to start against Alabama. His dual-threat ability will be a focal point for both LSU and Alabama, as he can both pass and run with great effectiveness.
2. Malik Nabers (Wide Receiver) – Full Participation (Ankle)
LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers, who has been one of Daniels’ primary targets this season, also dealt with an ankle issue. However, Nabers has shown no limitations in practice and is cleared to play. He remains one of the top playmakers on the LSU offense, and his chemistry with Daniels will be key to breaking down Alabama’s defense.
3. Maason Smith (Defensive Tackle) – Questionable (Knee)
LSU’s defensive line could face a significant challenge without Maason Smith, who is dealing with a lingering knee issue. Smith’s ability to disrupt plays in the backfield is crucial to LSU’s defensive strategy, and if he’s unable to play, the Tigers will need to rely more heavily on other defensive linemen to apply pressure on Milroe and the Alabama running backs.
Both Alabama and LSU enter this matchup with a few key players dealing with injuries, but the overall outlook for the game remains positive for both teams.
The battle between Alabama’s defense and LSU’s explosive offense will likely be a deciding factor, and the health of players like Jalen Milroe and Jayden Daniels could ultimately tip the scales in favor of one side.
As always, injuries are a part of football, and it will be interesting to see how each team adjusts to their respective challenges as the game unfolds.