The injury bug is starting to impact Alabama football halfway through its 2023 regular season. On Saturday against Texas A&M, the Crimson Tide saw two players exit the game, with defensive back Malachi Moore leaving the sideline on a cart and not return to the game, and punter James Burnip injured attempting to make a tackle.
Moore was spotted after the 26-20 win leaving Kyle Field in College Station on crutches with a boot on his right foot.
“Malachi had a twisted ankle,” Saban said after the game.
Burnip returned to the game after his injury, though not as punter. After going to the locker room, he came back to the sideline and served as holder on placekicks.
Kicker Will Reichard handled the punting duties the rest of the way.
“He’s got a pulled muscle in his leg,” Saban said.
Jaeden Roberts made his first start of the season at right guard for the Crimson Tide. Regular starter Darrian Dalcourt was in uniform.
Saban said a Dalcourt injury contributed to that change.
“Dalcourt had a little shoulder problem,” Saban said. “He was struggling a little bit so I thought (Roberts) went in and did a pretty good job.”
Alabama next plays on Saturday against Arkansas at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa.
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