Tennessee football: Five key Alabama players to watch for against Vols
829. Running back. Junior. Jahmyr Gibbs. 2. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
5’11” 200 pounds
They may not have the same receivers, but Alabama has one of the best all-around weapons in the Nick Saban era. Jahmyr Gibbs is on pace for 1,500 yards from scrimmage this year, and he’s one of the most efficient running backs in the nation. He’s also more evidence of Saban’s ability to evolve and adapt to his players.
While Mark Ingram, Trent Richardson, Eddie Lacy and Derrick Henry once created a tradition of power backs at Alabama, Gibbs is more of a speedy all-purpose back, and he’s playing that role to perfection. For the year, he has 64 carries for 532 yards (8.4 yards per carry) and two touchdowns along with 22 catches for 220 yards and three touchdowns.
Given the injury issue at quarterback, the Tide may even rely on Gibbs even more, and they should given his insane yards per carry average. Tennessee football has developed a reputation for a solid run defense so far this year, but Gibbs will be the toughest test they have faced. He’s definitely going to be Alabama’s most important offensive weapon in this one.
Last week, without Bryce Young, Gibbs had 21 carries for 154 yards along with three catches for 13 yards. He was the offense for Jalen Milroe, and if Milroe is the starter, he’ll be the offense again. Young may bring more balance, but Gibbs will still be extremely explosive.