A sprained ankle isn’t going to keep Alabama Crimson Tide running back T.J. Yeldon from playing in the biggest game of the year against the No. 1 Mississippi State Bulldogs. But the injury may limit Yeldon’s participation in the contest.
The Crimson Tide’s starting tailback originally injured his ankle during last week’s overtime contest against the LSU Tigers. Yeldon was limited but did practice throughout the week.
Alabama head coach Nick Saban said Friday that he thought Yeldon would play in the game. The coach took it a step further Saturday morning and basically stated Yeldon will play, albeit in a limited role.
Nick Saban on RB T.J. Yeldon: “We’ll decide in pre-game how much he’ll play & how effective he can be”
— Brett McMurphy (@McMurphyESPN) November 15, 2014
Alabama’s coaching staff will clearly gauge Yeldon’s progress throughout the game. If he isn’t nearly as effective as he’s been most of the season then Alabama has the luxury of handing the ball to Derrick Henry. But it will be important for the Crimson Tide to establish its running game against a talented and aggressive Mississippi State defensive front.
The Crimson Tide’s leading rusher being on the field can only help Alabama establish itself on the ground and give it the best shot of dethroning Mississippi State as the nation’s top team.
