If Trent Richardson is going to play in Alabama’s game with Mississippi State Saturday, it appears Thursday is the key day for which direction his availability will go.
The running back suffered a knee injury in the loss to LSU Saturday and missed most of the second half, and has been very limited in the three practices since. Head coach Nick Saban could not say one or the other Wednesday if Richardson would be available, but should know more after this afternoon’s practice.
“Trent did some running [Wednesday], did some work [Wednesday]. But if he’s not better [today], then I don’t know that he’ll be ready to play in the game,” Saban said. “We’ll just have to wait and see on that one.”
Richardson started the first two games of the season in place of the injured Mark Ingram, and is just seven yards (641-634) behind the reigning Heisman winner as the team’s leading rusher. The sophomore is also fourth in receptions (19) and receiving yards (245).
If Richardson is unable to go, Eddie Lacy and his 6.8 yards per carry would seem to be in line to get the bulk of those carries.
We do not lack for talented runners. But I sure miss last years defensive stars … sigh.