The main reason, though, was a focus on better time management of the players that Saban, during SEC Media Days, hinted would be a focus this season.
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“I think it was really helpful that we were able to spend that time”, UA coach Nick Saban said in a Thursday press conference following the Crimson Tide’s first fall practice. Potter states that Scarbrough was limited at Thursday’s practice, while wearing a black, no-contact jersey.
Furthermore, AL.com’s Michael Casagrande noted Scarbrough “is a little ahead of schedule in practice” but that he has not been cleared for contact yet.
In the past, Alabama has held two separate practices on the first day of preseason workouts: an early session for the veterans and an afternoon practice for the newcomers. “They obviously don’t have the experience some of our players have had in the past, so it will be an interesting challenge to get those guys to develop the confidence and the attention to detail that’s necessary to develop the chemistry in the passing game”. Saban lauded the team, particularly the young players, for their organization over summer.
Along with Scarbrough and wide receiver Cam Sims, who tore a knee ligament during spring practice, two other Tide reserves will miss time with injuries.
Redshirt freshman offensive guard Josh Casher injured his pectoral muscle while lifting weights and will be out of practice for a few weeks.
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“We have some talented guys at the receiver position”, Saban said. We’re hoping to be able to use those guys when school starts. Senior Kenyan Drake will also be part of the rotation, though he is recovering from a broken leg that cost him all but the first five games of last season.
