BamaOnLine.com - Friday practice report

August 21, 2009

Chase Goodbread
BamaOnLine.com Senior Writer

The Alabama football team practiced in the Hank Crisp Indoor Athletic Facility for the second consecutive day due to the threat of rains in the Tuscaloosa area. UA worked out in helmets and shoulder pads in making final preparations for Saturday's scrimmage at Bryant-Denny Stadium. A few observations by BamaOnLine.com from Friday's media viewing period:

Practice notes ...

*** Three players were spotted in black non-contact jerseys Friday, running back Roy Upchurch, cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick and wide receiver Kenny Bell. Consider Bell out for Saturday's scrimmage as UA coach Nick Saban said the freshman would miss at least a week of practice with shin splints. Don't look for Upchurch or Kirkpatrick to participate Saturday, either. Though Saban said he hoped they could participate on Thursday, it would be highly unusual for any player to see scrimmage action without being cleared for contact in the previous practice.

*** With Upchurch not participating in drills, the running backs were led by Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson and Terry Grant in Friday's individual drills. While Ingram's place in the playing rotation is likely secure, Saturday's scrimmage presents an ideal opportunity for Richardson and Grant with the likelihood that Upchurch will sit out.

*** Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Barrett Jones continued to work with the first group at right guard. Saturday's scrimmage could represent an opportunity for Jones to solidify his place on the offensive front.

*** Wide receiver Brandon Gibson made an impressive catch on a ball thrown behind him by Greg McElroy during Friday's drill work. Several players have commented on Gibson's strong camp performance over the last two weeks.

*** There will be no media access to Saban or players following Friday's practice. Saturday's scrimmage will be closed to the public. BOL will have complete coverage of Saturday's scrimmage beginning with a mid-afternoon report from individual drills.

*** Stay with BOL for complete coverage of Friday's practice, including video (players, Instant Analysis), and a photo gallery.

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