Alabama defensive back and return specialist Javier Arenas has been working in full pads this week and could potentially play on Saturday against Tennessee. No final decision has been made but Arenas is listed as “day-to-day” after suffering a rib injury in practice which kept him out of action against South Carolina.
If Arenas is unavailable look for Marquis Johnson to once again play a vital role in the Crimson Tide pass defense. Johnson had a superb game against South Carolina and finished the contest with six pass breakups to his credit.
As a unit, the Crimson Tide secondary had a very nice outing against South Carolina. Along with the excellent play of Marquis Johnson, safety Mark Barron had a 77-yard interception return for an Alabama touchdown.
In respect to kickoff and punt return needs, expect Julio Jones, Trent Richardson, and Terry Grant to be on duty if Arenas is once again inactive.
In other injury news, freshman defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick, and nose tackle Josh Chapman have also been in full pads this week despite injury. Kirkpatrick has been dealing with back spasms, and Chapman has an abdominal strain. Both players are listed as “day-to-day” but the prognosis and the ability to practice in full gear looks positive.
Finally, the recognition just keeps coming for Tide linebacker Rolando McClain. Rolando has been named as one of the 20 quarterfinalists for the Lott Trophy. The prized award is named after former NFL great, Ronnie Lott. The award is given to the player who is regarded as the “Top Defensive Impact Player in College Football.”
McClain is an essential piece to the Alabama defensive puzzle, and his effort and performance has certainly been worthy of high recognition and respected awards.
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