Alabama hoping for 'bigger contribution' from recovering RB Josh Jacobs
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — As Alabama’s two leading running backs begin to heat up, the Crimson Tide might be ready to add a third key rusher to the mix.
After making his season debut against Colorado State last week, sophomore Josh Jacobs has taken a bigger role during practice and is now working without a hamstring support apparatus on his leg. Jacobs played in only a handful of plays last week, tallying one carry for 6 yards. Although, that could change this week as Alabama opens up conference play Saturday at Vanderbilt.
While Nick Saban was shy to release too many details on Jacobs’ status during his Wednesday news conference, the head coach did allude to a heightened role for the sophomore back moving forward.
“He is what he is,” Saban said. “We didn’t want to play him too much (against Colorado State). He’s trying to feel his way back. He’s done more in practice this week, so hopefully he’ll make a bigger contribution in the game.”
Jacobs suffered a hamstring injury in August that sidelined him for both of the Tide’s preseason scrimmages as well as its opening two games this season. The 5-foot-10, 212-pound back rushed for 567 yards and four touchdowns last season while adding 156 yards on 14 catches.
If Jacobs is able to return he will join an Alabama backfield that appears to be beginning to pick up steam. Last week, Bo Scarbrough rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, while Damien Harris tallied 53 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.
“I think both those guys are off to a good start and both of them have played really well and probably played their best in this last game,” Saban said during the SEC Coaches Teleconference earlier in the day. “They’ve gotten a little better each game. We’re really pleased with those two guys. We’ve got a lot of confidence in them. Hopefully, they’ll be able to continue to stay healthy and build on what they’ve done so far this season.”