Alabama Navigates Injuries with Eyes on College Football Playoff

Alabama entered Iron Bowl week grappling with a growing injury list, forcing head coach and staff to manage player availability carefully. Eight players were ruled out for the rivalry clash against Auburn, including versatile defender Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., while tight ends Josh Cuevas and Danny Lewis Jr. were sidelined, leaving questions about offensive continuity.

Star wide receiver Germie Bernard was upgraded to “probable,” providing some relief, as the Tide pursued not only in-state bragging rights but also critical positioning in the College Football Playoff race. Notre Dame loomed in the rankings, making each matchup pivotal for Alabama’s postseason hopes.

Attention quickly turned to Josh Cuevas, whose status remained uncertain heading into the Iron Bowl. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Cuevas was listed as doubtful, unlikely to participate in warmups, and not counted on for game-day contributions, highlighting the program’s cautious approach with its key offensive weapon.

Despite the setbacks, there is optimism within Alabama’s staff. Sources indicate that the program believes Cuevas has a strong chance to return fully in time for the College Football Playoff, provided the team reaches the postseason and avoids further complications.

1. Tight End and Offensive Considerations

Josh Cuevas’ injury represents a critical factor for Alabama’s offense, given his role in both the passing and blocking schemes. The staff has emphasized measured usage to protect him from aggravating the leg injury, balancing short-term needs with long-term playoff goals. Danny Lewis Jr. joins Cuevas on the sidelines, forcing adjustments to tight end rotations and limiting in-game flexibility. Backup personnel may see expanded snaps, but Alabama’s offensive efficiency relies heavily on having at least one top tight end near full strength. Cuevas’ cautious management signals the program’s willingness to prioritize postseason readiness over individual regular-season appearances. Limiting his role or sitting him entirely against Auburn was seen as a preventive measure rather than a setback in his overall recovery plan. The overarching goal is clear: preserve Cuevas’ health so he can contribute at maximum capacity when the stakes are highest, particularly in potential College Football Playoff matchups.

2. Running Back and Depth Challenges

In addition to tight end concerns, Alabama faces uncertainty in the backfield. Starting running back Jam Miller is trending negatively with a leg injury and is not expected to play in the SEC Championship Game rematch against Georgia, leaving the offense shorthanded. Backup Kevin Riley has also been ruled out, compounding the pressure on an already thin roster. This creates an opportunity for sophomore Daniel Hill, who had been gradually integrated into a larger role late in the regular season. Hill’s development and workload management will be key to sustaining offensive production. The combination of injured tight ends and running backs underscores the importance of depth for Alabama. The staff must adjust play-calling and rotations carefully to maintain efficiency while protecting key contributors for January. Even with these absences, the program retains confidence that its young and experienced players can handle the increased responsibilities while keeping primary stars healthy for postseason play.

3. Looking Ahead to the College Football Playoff

Alabama’s approach to injuries reflects a broader strategy of forward planning. With the College Football Playoff on the horizon, the staff has prioritized long-term health over short-term gains, particularly for pivotal players like Josh Cuevas. The team’s medical and coaching staff remain cautiously optimistic that Cuevas will return to full strength in time for postseason competition, assuming no setbacks occur. His presence would bolster both blocking and receiving options in high-stakes matchups. This strategy extends to other injured players as well. By managing exposure and limiting snaps in less critical games, Alabama aims to ensure key contributors are fresh and ready for playoff contention. Ultimately, the Tide’s handling of its injury situation demonstrates a calculated approach: short-term sacrifices for the potential of long-term success, reinforcing the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level when it matters most.