Jam Miller, Derek Meadows injury update: Kalen DeBoer provides latest on concussion protocol

Alabama running back Jam Miller and wide receiver Derek Meadows both suffered concussions in Saturday’s 27-24 win against No. 14 Missouri, head coach Kalen DeBoer revealed postgame. The Crimson Tide are hoping to get both back for this weekend’s contest against Tennessee, but that appears unlikely.

It might have one of the two available, though. DeBoer provided an update Wednesday on an SEC teleconference call.

“Yeah, I expected Derek will be out,” the Alabama head coach said. “But I think Jam’s in probably what we’ll put will be a questionable state for the weekend when it comes to the report tonight. That’s kind of where I see it at right now.”

Derek Meadows took a monstrous hit to the helmet in the first quarter by Missouri safety Marvin Burks Jr., which resulted in Burks’ ejection for targeting. Jam Miller, who rushed for 85 yards on 20 carries in the win, suffered a hit to the helmet in the fourth quarter by safety Jalen Catalon.

Both are significant contributors for the Crimson Tide on offense. Their availability — or potential lack thereof — will be a big deal in the contest.

Jam Miller has logged a team-leading 58 carries for 267 yards and one touchdown. He’s also caught eight passes for 52 yards.

Meadows, meanwhile, has had a more limited impact. He has recorded a few snaps on offense but has played more on special teams.

Alabama will be looking to continue its recent run of success after rebounding nicely from a season-opening loss to Florida State. The Crimson Tide have now won five straight, which includes a strong run against ranked teams.

Over the last three games, Alabama has knocked off three ranked opponents. First it was a huge road win over No. 5 Georgia, then a revenge game rematch against No. 16 Vanderbilt. Finally, the team dispatched No. 14 Missouri over the weekend.

The upcoming game against Tennessee will carry significant stakes. Alabama is looking to remain unbeaten in SEC play, while Tennessee will be trying to fend off a second conference loss. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff on ABC.