Alabama Faces Early Test as RB Jam Miller Sidelined, Committee Backfield to Step In..

Alabama Faces Early Test as RB Jam Miller Sidelined, Committee Backfield to Step In..

The Alabama Crimson Tide will open their 2025 season without one of their most important offensive playmakers. Junior running back Jam Miller has been ruled out of Saturday’s highly anticipated season opener against Florida State after suffering a dislocated collarbone in practice. The injury, which occurred during contact drills last week, has altered the Tide’s offensive outlook just days before kickoff.

While Miller is expected to return later in the season—potentially by the SEC clash with Georgia in late September—his absence leaves head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb with an immediate challenge: finding stability in the run game through a committee approach.

Instead of leaning on one bell cow runner, Alabama will split carries among a quartet of backs: Daniel Hill, Richard Young, Dre Washington, and Kevin Riley. Each player brings a different skill set to the rotation, and coaches believe a shared workload could not only fill the temporary void left by Miller but also create long-term depth for the season.

Daniel Hill, a versatile runner with strong lower-body power, is expected to handle much of the inside rushing load. His physical style makes him a logical choice for short-yardage situations.

Richard Young, known for his speed and acceleration, offers a big-play element that could stretch opposing defenses.

Dre Washington, a steady option with good hands out of the backfield, gives the Tide an extra layer in the passing game.

Kevin Riley, one of the younger backs, has shown flashes of potential during summer workouts and may earn early chances to prove himself in live action.

Together, this group represents Alabama’s best hope of maintaining offensive balance until Miller is cleared to return.

Ryan Grubb has emphasized that Alabama’s system is designed to adapt, even when top personnel are unavailable. Speaking earlier this week, he noted that the offense is not built around one player but around executing a scheme that maximizes multiple strengths.

“We have confidence in every guy in that room,” Grubb explained. “They all bring something different, and that gives us flexibility. Our job as coaches is to put them in positions to succeed and keep the offense on schedule.”

Grubb also hinted that the Tide may not shy away from leaning more on the passing game under new starting quarterback Ty Simpson. With Simpson making his first career start, however, establishing some kind of ground presence remains crucial.

All eyes will also be on Ty Simpson, who takes the reins as Alabama’s new starting quarterback. Miller’s absence places even more pressure on Simpson to deliver, especially in high-leverage downs where the run-pass balance is often critical.

Analysts believe Simpson’s debut will be more challenging without a proven veteran back behind him. However, a by-committee rushing strategy could also provide unpredictability, giving Alabama chances to disguise play calls and keep Florida State guessing.

Losing Miller for the opener is a blow, but the Tide remain optimistic about their long-term prospects. Alabama’s offensive line, though dealing with its own questions—including the status of Jaeden Roberts, who is in concussion protocol—remains one of the most experienced units in the SEC. If the line can control the trenches, the running-back committee should have room to operate.

Moreover, the temporary shift may accelerate development across the roster. Giving multiple backs early-season opportunities can deepen Alabama’s bench strength for the grueling SEC slate ahead. If Hill, Young, Washington, or Riley emerge as reliable contributors, the Tide could find themselves even stronger when Miller returns.

Florida State, meanwhile, is preparing for a versatile Alabama offense. Head coach Mike Norvell has stressed that while Miller’s absence changes some dynamics, Alabama’s overall talent level demands the Seminoles stay disciplined. “They have depth at every position,” Norvell said. “You don’t replace a player like Jam Miller easily, but their committee is capable, and we expect them to come out strong.”

Miller’s recovery timeline looks favorable thanks to Alabama’s early bye week. After sitting out the Florida State game, he will continue rehabilitation with the goal of returning for the September 27 matchup against Georgia. Team medical staff believe the injury, though painful, won’t be season-ending.

For Miller, who was widely seen as a potential breakout candidate this season, the focus is now on recovery and maintaining his conditioning until he can safely return.