Monday practice report

With rain threatening and thunder providing a soundtrack for opening drills, the Alabama Crimson Tide returned to the practice field to begin preparations for its home opener against Western Kentucky on Saturday. The Tide began practice outside in mostly cloudy, 86-degree conditions. When the media observation period ended the practice moved inside.

Freshman linebacker Reggie Ragland (ankle) was the only Tide player wearing a black, no-contact jersey during the media observation period. The other players who were injured during Saturday’s game against Michigan did not appear to be wearing black jerseys. Robert Lester (shoulder stinger) was moving around nicely.

Jesse Williams (mild concussion) worked with the defensive linemen, but did not appear as aggressive as usual. With the precautions being taken all around the football landscape these days concerning concussions, it would not be surprising to see the Alabama medical staff be very careful with Williams as he recovers.

“We have probably four guys that will be limited to some degree today,” Saban said earlier on Monday. “Jesse Williams, Tana Patrick and Trey DePriest and Reggie Ragland. Reggie Ragland probably being the guy that may be the most difficult for this game. The other guys should be able to practice in a day or two and shouldn’t be a problem.”

Tana Patrick‘s injury was one that was not noted during the postgame press conference on Saturday. On Monday, it appeared that the only clue to his injury was a brace on his left knee.

Freshman running back T.J. Yeldon continued to work behind junior running back Eddie Lacy. Coach Saban added during his press conference that had Lacy been too injured to play it would have been Yeldon who would have gotten the start. Lacy did not appear to be bothered too much by any injuries (knee, ankle), but his ankle was heavily taped.

As long as Lacy remains healthy, his starting job won’t be in danger. He’s too experienced and talented. However, should he remain banged up or be forced to sit some games out, Yeldon has shown during the spring and now against Michigan that he is a legitimate option as a primary back.

The Crimson Tide will return to the practice field tomorrow to continue preparing for Western Kentucky.