Bama starting DBs uncertain for Texas showdown

Alabama defensive backs Malachi Moore and Jaylen Key are both considered day-to-day heading into Saturday's game marquee against Texas.

Moore, a preseason All-SEC pick, and Key, an honorable mention All-Conference USA pick at UAB last year, started last week's season opener against Middle Tennessee and left the game with undisclosed injuries.

"They're both day-to-day," Saban said. "So, it's probably too early to tell what their circumstance will be. Probably be a couple of days and we'll figure it out. But I don't think either guy has long-term issues. But it will be interesting to see how they progress this week."

The Crimson Tide will also be without receiver and special teams player Emmanuel Henderson, who will miss multiple weeks with a hip injury.

Saban lamented the injury, saying that Henderson had a good preseason camp.

No. 4 Alabama will host No. 11 Texas in its first big test of the season on Saturday.

"This is a really good team all the way around, and it's going to be an opportunity for our team to [answer], where are we as a team? Where are you as a player" Saban said.

Saban praised Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, who was previously Alabama's offensive coordinator from 2019-20.

"They have a good team," he said. "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."

Ewers completed 9 of 12 passes for 134 yards against Alabama last season. He left the game with an injury and the Crimson Tide won, 20-19, on a late field goal by Will Reichard.

Saban called Xavier Worthy an "outstanding receiver" and Ja'Tavion Sanders "a really good tight end."