Nick Saban Updates Injury Statuses of Tyler Booker, Jaheim Oatis

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — After Alabama football's Wednesday practice, head coach Nick Saban addressed the media and updated the statuses of sophomore guard Tyler Booker and sophomore defensive tackle Jaheim Oatis. 

After both players missed the South Florida game last weekend, Saban said both players have practiced this week.

"They haven't had issues," Saban said. "That doesn't mean they're still not day-to-day in terms of coming back and getting over injuries, but they are practicing."

Booker dressed out for the South Florida game and was even a pregame captain, but did not play a snap after suffering back spasms. Terrence Ferguson started in his place.

Saban commented after the game how Booker is viewed as the leader of the offensive line, and how his presence in the game helps the line play better, especially in reference to freshman left tackle Kadyn Proctor.

Oatis did not dress out for the South Florida game, instead walking around with a boot after having suffered an ankle injury. Tim Smith started in Oatis' place on the defensive interior.

Things look to be trending towards Booker and Oatis playing this week, but as Saban's "day-to-day" designation for the players indicates, it won't be confirmed until the game itself.

No. 13 Alabama faces off against No. 15 Ole Miss on Saturday, with a 2:20 p.m. CT kickoff. The game will be aired on CBS. 

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