Alabama’s Jam Miller Injury Update: Star Running Back “Questionable” Ahead of Tennessee Clash

Head coach Kalen DeBoer provided a cautious update during Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference, calling Miller “questionable for the weekend.” The Crimson Tide offense, which has leaned heavily on Miller since his return from an early-season injury, could face a major test if he’s unable to suit up.

Miller’s Tough Season: From Collarbone to Concussion

Miller’s 2024 campaign has been anything but smooth. The senior from Tyler, Texas, missed Alabama’s first three games after dislocating his collarbone earlier this season. Since returning, he’s reestablished himself as the team’s go-to back the steady heartbeat of the Tide’s rushing attack.

Through six games, Miller has logged 58 carries for 267 yards and one touchdown, showing flashes of his trademark burst and physicality. But with another setback this time a concussion his availability for Saturday’s top-15 matchup hangs in the balance.

Receiver Derek Meadows Also Sidelined

DeBoer also confirmed that freshman wide receiver Derek Meadows will miss the Tennessee game entirely as he continues to recover from his own concussion suffered against Missouri.

The Las Vegas native has yet to record a catch this season, but his potential as a future playmaker is undeniable. Fortunately for Alabama, the receiver room remains one of its deepest units, easing the loss of the promising freshman.

Depth Chart Jitters: Who Steps Up If Miller Can’t Go?

While the Tide’s receiver depth is comforting, the running back rotation is where things get trickier. Behind Miller, Alabama’s backfield is young and relatively untested.

Kevin Riley has emerged as the primary backup, notching 44 carries for 183 yards and hauling in a touchdown reception against Missouri. He’s been reliable but hasn’t yet faced a defense of Tennessee’s caliber.

Others in the mix include:

AK Dear: 7 carries, 85 yards

Richard Young: 19 carries, 48 yards

Daniel Hill: 12 carries, 39 yards

Dre Washington: 9 carries, 36 yards

Each has shown flashes in limited action, but replacing Miller’s power and consistency will be no small task if he can’t clear concussion protocol in time.

The Stakes: Alabama vs. Tennessee

Saturday’s matchup at Bryant-Denny Stadium (6:30 p.m. CT, ABC) carries weight far beyond bragging rights. With Alabama sitting at No. 6 (5-1 overall, 3-0 SEC) and Tennessee at No. 11, the game could shape the trajectory of both teams’ seasons and potentially the SEC title race.

For Alabama, Miller’s presence in the backfield could mean the difference between an efficient, balanced offense and one forced to rely more heavily on the passing game.

The Bottom Line

As of midweek, Jam Miller remains in concussion protocol, and Alabama fans are holding their breath. The Tide’s running game runs through him his patience, his explosiveness, his ability to wear down defenses over four quarters.

If Miller can’t go, Alabama will turn to a committee of young backs to carry the load against one of the nation’s toughest defensive fronts.

For now, DeBoer’s message remains cautious but optimistic and for Crimson Tide fans, hope lingers that their star running back will be ready when the lights come on in Tuscaloosa.