CFB: Alabama’s Malachi Moore, Jaylen Key uncertain to play in Texas game

Nick Saban previews Alabama vs. Texas game; ‘ I think everybody knows Sark is a really good coach.’

Ahead of the match against the Texas Longhorns, Coach Nick Saban of the Alabama Crimson Tide disclosed that the availability of defensive backs Malachi Moore and Jaylen Key was uncertain due to injuries, emphasizing both DBs were on “day-to-day” status.

Saban said it was too early to confirm anything, but he did not expect long-term issues.

“It will be interesting to see how they progress this week,” Saban said.

Moore, a preseason All-SEC pick, and Key, an honorable mention All-Conference USA pick at UAB last year, both started in last week’s season opener against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders but had to leave the game due to undisclosed injuries. The Saturday game ended with the Crimson Tide (1-0) securing a 56-7 win at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

During that game, Key tackled both of his two attempts with one interception, while Moore ended the game with one tackle.

Furthermore, Saban said Monday that WR Emmanuel Henderson Jr. would be sidelined for a few weeks due to a hip injury. Henderson did not participate in the Middle Tennessee game.

“He was having a great fall camp, doing a great job on special teams, made a lot of progress as a receiver. So we’d love to get him back,” Saban said.

Saban’s comments on Longhorns

Saban expressed his opinion on the upcoming game, saying that Texas was a strong team. Additionally, Saban gave his praise to Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, who was previously Alabama’s offensive coordinator from 2019 to 2020.

“They have a veteran team returning with 10 starters on offense, six on defense. Really good skill players on offense. Really good quarterback [Quinn Ewers] who can throw the ball effectively. They make a lot of explosive plays,” Saban said.

As Texas’ main signal-caller, Quinn Ewers threw nine of 12 passes for 134 yards against Alabama last season. During that game, he left with an injury, and the Crimson Tide secured a 20-19 victory with a late field goal by kicker Will Reichard.

Saban also praised other players from Texas, describing WR Xavier Worthy as an “outstanding receiver” and referring to TE Ja’Tavion Sanders as a highly capable tight end.