Alabama’s Backfield Gets a Boost as Kevin Riley Returns to Practice Ahead of Rose Bowl
Just in time for the Rose Bowl, Alabama’s running back room is finally starting to look whole again - and that could be a big deal.
Redshirt freshman Kevin Riley, who’s been sidelined for the past three games with a broken jaw, was back in action during Sunday’s practice. And this wasn’t a limited return - Riley was fully suited up, ditching the black non-contact jersey and taking part in drills like a player ready to contribute. That’s a welcome sight for a Crimson Tide offense that’s quietly been getting healthier as the postseason approaches.
Riley’s return comes just a day after senior running back Jam Miller declared himself “100% healthy,” giving Alabama a potential three-headed monster in the backfield heading into their semifinal matchup with Indiana. While head coach Kalen DeBoer hasn’t officially commented on Riley’s status - and we’ll likely have to wait until Monday’s media availability or the official injury report - Sunday’s practice participation speaks volumes.
And if Riley is indeed good to go, it could be a sneaky difference-maker.
Let’s rewind a bit. Riley wasn’t expected to be a major contributor this season.
He started the year buried on the depth chart as the No. 5 back. But when opportunity knocked, he answered.
In Alabama’s season-opening loss to Florida State, Riley was arguably the most effective runner on the field. That performance earned him back-to-back starts against UL Monroe and Wisconsin, giving the Tide a glimpse of what he could bring to the table.
Once Jam Miller returned from injury in late September, Riley’s role shifted. His touches became more limited, but he didn’t fade into the background.
Instead, he carved out a niche as a reliable, versatile option - especially in the passing game. Quarterback Ty Simpson has leaned on him as a checkdown option, and Riley’s delivered, hauling in 19 receptions for 176 yards and a touchdown, including a key score against Missouri.
What stands out most about Riley’s game is his efficiency. Among Alabama’s trio of main backs - Miller, Daniel Hill, and Riley - it’s the redshirt freshman who leads the group in yards per carry at 4.0. He’s totaled 222 rushing yards on the year, and while those numbers don’t jump off the page, they reflect a player who maximizes his touches and stays ready when called upon.
If Riley is cleared to play against Indiana, he’ll likely slot in behind Miller and Hill in the rotation. But don’t mistake that for an insignificant role.
Against a physical Indiana front seven, Alabama will need every bit of depth and versatility it can get. Riley’s ability to contribute in both the run and pass game makes him a valuable chess piece - one that could help keep drives alive, extend possessions, and give Simpson a reliable outlet when the pocket collapses.
Bottom line: Alabama’s backfield is getting healthy at the right time. And with Kevin Riley trending toward availability, the Crimson Tide may have another weapon ready to make an impact on college football’s biggest stage.