Alabama’s Key Sugar Bowl Player Combos [Audio]

Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson, Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon as well as A.J. McCarron and Kevin Norwood have been among the countless combinations that have contributed to Alabama’s run of greatness under Nick Saban.

With less than a week until kickoff of Alabama and Clemson, former Alabama fullback Martin Houston explored some possible combinations that could play a key role in Monday night’s contest on The Blitz.

At running back, Houston explained how the extended break from competition could prove beneficial for the Crimson Tide’s corps of running backs including Josh Jacobs.

“I think with the off time and the long break, they’re going to have enough time to get enough different ways to get him the ball.” Houston said. “To me, they’re going to do some of the (Lane) Kiffin-type/Reggie Bush-type stuff not just as a running back but having Jacobs and Harris on the field at the same time.”

The host of The Blitz mentioned how the game plan could also help junior Damien Harris.

“I think they’re going to feed (Damien) Harris. I think he’s going to get an opportunity to finally be what he thinks he can be but no one else including that coaching staff has.” Houston said.

In last year’s national championship game, Alabama’s tandem of running backs received only four carries after Bo Scarbrough’s injury in the third quarter. Looking ahead to Monday, Houston does not believe that same set of circumstance will happen in this year’s game.

“I don’t think we go away from it like we did last year.” Houston stated. “I think we continue to feed the beast. No matter who it is, I think we will utilize whichever running back is in the game and available to be used in the game.”

The former Alabama fullback later analyzed Clemson freshman Kelly Bryant’s profile at quarterback, how Alabama can make Bryant one-dimensional, how the Crimson Tide can limit Hunter Renfroe’s impact in the game and how Alabama’s offense can utilize tight ends Irv Smith and Hale Hentges in the passing game.

Catch The Blitz with Martin Houston every weekday from 6-7 AM on Tide 102.9/100.9 and the Tide 102.9 app.