Two key veterans making their return, will be available against Miami
The Alabama football team is getting a boost heading into this weekend’s season opener against Miami. Two key veterans will be making their return to field, according to coach Nick Saban.
On Wednesday, Saban spoke to the media during the weekly SEC teleconference. It was there that he updated the status of two fifth-year players, Kendall Randolph and LaBryan Ray. Apparently, they’ll both be available in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff game.
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“I think both will be ready to play in the game,” Saban told reporters. “We’re very encouraged by how they were doing, how they’ve been doing, the progress that they’re making. Kendall’s been out with a little twisted ankle, and LaBryan’s coming off a muscle pull. But both guys will be available for the game, and both guys are doing very well.”
Randolph is currently the projected starter at right tackle, ahead of freshman JC Latham and second-year player Damieon George. With Randolph’s extensive experience, having him available against the Hurricanes is significant.
Ray is in a very different situation, however.
Despite being a starting defensive end in the past, his constant issues with various injuries has relegated him to a rotational role. That doesn’t mean he can’t or won’t have any sort of impact on Saturday. It just means, unlike Randolph, we don’t know what Ray’s role will be.
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As far as DeMarcco Hellams, it’s unlikely that he suits up based off comments Saban made earlier this week. Back on Monday, the Alabama head coach wouldn’t commit one way or the other.
“DeMarcco will start running today,” Saban said “He’s still probably questionable for this game, so I can’t answer whether he’ll be available for the game or not.”
If Hellams misses the game, second-year safety Brian Branch is the most likely candidate to fill the void. We could also see some Daniel Wright in there as well, but Branch is listed as Hellams’ backup at free safety.
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