Alabama’s offensive struggles might be getting worse before they get better following a major loss ahead of SEC Championship
Alabama’s run game will take a major hit vs. Georgia, but there is a positive outlook.
The Alabama Crimson Tide looked to have turned a corner for three quarters against the Auburn Tigers last week. The run game, propelled by Jam Miller, was finally playing complementary to Ty Simpson and helping him shoulder some of the load.
But then came a scary-looking lower-body injury to Miller, and the last we saw of him, he was exiting Jordan-Hare on crutches. The lead-up to the game vs. the Georgia Bulldogs had Miller listed as questionable all week, until Friday, that is.
Jam Miller is expected to be out vs. Georgia in SEC Championship
“Alabama tailback Jam Miller (lower leg) faces long odds to be available against Georgia on Saturday in the SEC title game, as he’s listed as questionable. He’s expected back for the postseason, as the injury isn’t considered serious.” – Pete Thamel, ESPN (via X-Twitter)
The loss of Miller looms large for Alabama, as Daniel Hill will now be back in the starting lineup. Miller, the Tide’s feature back, is a one-cut, burst player who uses his foot quickness and agility to get upfield.
Hill, on the other hand, is a bruiser who will fall forward on every rep and gain the tough yards, but the explosive runs aren’t nearly as prevalent. AK Dear, who has primarily been a pass-catching back and rarely featured, could also see an increase in workload. For more insight on the loss of Miller, here is a blurb from Josh Taylor, an A to Z Sports Alabama contributor.
“Losing Jam Miller is crucial when you think about the first game. He didn’t have the craziest stats, but he’s an experienced player who can make big plays in big moments. He was the one who caught the ball on the 3rd down gutsy play call to end the game. Alabama will have to rely on some youth with Kevin Riley out as well.
“That’s the top two rushers on the season. It’s also a major opportunity for Daniel Hill to show that he can be the lead back when needed, and possibly next season. I’d also expect some Germie Bernard touches with Ryan Grubb mixing some plays up for him as he has throughout the season. Bernard actually has 17 carries on the season and averages 6 yards on the ground.” – Taylor
Taylor’s point about Bernard is a good one. He is very much like that Swiss Army Knife who can pick up the slack in the backfield. Oh, and don’t forget about Kaydn Proctor and the wildcat package.
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