Alabama Missing Key Players For Clash With Texas A&M

Roster hit hard ahead of kickoff

Alabama enters Saturday's matchup against Texas A&M trying to end a two-game losing streak, but the team will do so without several major contributors. The 13th ranked Crimson Tide ruled out starting cornerback Zabien Brown, tailback EJ Crowell, and center Racin Delgatty on Saturday's availability report.

Star receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams also remains sidelined. He recently underwent arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a meniscus injury.

Key positions affected on both sides

The loss of Brown hits the secondary hard. The junior from Santa Ana, California, has been a bright spot for a unit that has struggled against passing offenses this season. Alabama ranks 11th in the SEC in pass defense, giving up 230.9 yards per game, and 15th in yards per attempt at 7.8.

On offense, Crowell has rushed for 216 yards and four touchdowns on 32 carries this season. Trae'shawn Brown and Daniel Hill remain the team's leading rushers.

At center, Delgatty will miss his second straight game. The Cal Poly transfer was hurt during a 20-17 loss to Georgia on Oct. 10. Sophomore Mal Waldrep started in his place during last week's 26-10 loss at Tennessee.

Defensive updates and suspensions

There is some positive news for the roster. Receiver Mario Craver, who dealt with an ankle issue, and defensive tackle DJ Hicks are no longer listed on the injury report. Defensive end Anto Saka is a game-time decision due to a leg injury.

However, the defense took another hit with the suspension of backup defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. A school spokesperson stated he was suspended for violating team rules. Kirkpatrick has played in all seven games this season and recorded five tackles. He was also suspended for multiple games last season after an arrest for reckless endangerment, speeding, and attempting to elude.

What it means for the next game

Texas A&M Aggies at Alabama Crimson Tide (College Football, Sat, 24 Oct): Alabama Crimson Tide win 81%, Texas A&M Aggies win 19%; projected score Alabama Crimson Tide 32, Texas A&M Aggies 18. Our safest pick: Alabama to win.