2 min read • September 06, 2023
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In the world of college football, injuries are an unfortunate reality that can quickly reshape the landscape of a team's season. Recent developments in both No. 3 Alabama and No. 11 Texas have highlighted this fact, as key players face setbacks early in their respective campaigns.
On Oct. 2, 2021, Alabama running back Jase McClellan suffered a devastating ACL injury during a matchup against Ole Miss. Just over a month later, on Nov. 13, 2021, running back Roydell Williams experienced a similar fate, tearing his ACL during the Crimson Tide's clash with New Mexico State.
But both players have shown to be 100% healthy since they are two years removed from their ACL tears.
McClellan had 39 yards and a touchdown, while Williams had 36 yards in limited action in the Crimson Tide's season opener against Middle Tennessee State.
Alabama coach Nick Saban recently disclosed that linebacker Jihaad Campbell underwent a knee procedure approximately a week before the Crimson Tide's season opener. Though Campbell missed the opening game, he returned to practice Tuesday and is expected to play against Texas.
Defensive backs Jaylen Key and Malachi Moore sustained injuries during the Crimson Tides season opener. Saban said that both players are "day-to-day,” and their injuries are not expected to be long-term concerns.
Wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson, who is dealing with a hip injury, is expected to make his return to the Crimson Tide in a few weeks.
The Texas Longhorns, poised for what many consider one of their most significant seasons in a decade, entered the campaign with a relatively healthy roster. However, recent developments have raised concerns about their depth and resilience as injury woes surfaced during their recent victory over the Rice Owls.
Freshman running back CJ Baxter, who had shown promise and was a vital part of the Longhorns' plans, left the game early in the second quarter. His departure followed a remarkable 32-yard run, where he landed awkwardly, potentially injuring his ribs. There has been no official update regarding Baxter's status, and he did not re-enter the game after his exit. Notably, Baxter's role as a starting freshman running back for the Longhorns marked a significant milestone, a feat not achieved since the legendary Ricky Williams in 1995.
Another surprise for Texas was the absence of right guard Cole Hutson, who was expected to rotate into the game against Rice. Hutson, a key figure as the team's swing guard last season, occasionally started games for the Longhorns. However, his unanticipated absence raised questions about the offensive line’s depth and the team's overall readiness.
As the college football season unfolds, Alabama and Texas must navigate these early-season challenges posed by injuries. The resilience and depth of their rosters will play a crucial role in determining their success on the field in the coming weeks.
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