There’s a bit of buzz coming out of Tuscaloosa this week-and it’s not just about the Rose Bowl matchup. Alabama defensive lineman LT Overton, who’s been sidelined for the last two games with an undisclosed injury, might be gearing up for a return just in time for the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff quarterfinal clash against top-seeded Indiana.
Now, head coach Kalen DeBoer kept things close to the vest during Monday’s media availability, saying Overton remains under evaluation. But on Tuesday, the senior may have offered a not-so-subtle hint himself.
Overton posted an Instagram story with the caption: *“Back like I never left.” * For a Tide defense that’s about to face a Heisman winner in quarterback Fernando Mendoza, that’s a potentially huge development.
Overton’s absence has been felt, especially in the SEC Championship win over Georgia and the first-round playoff victory at Oklahoma. He’s been one of Alabama’s most disruptive forces up front this season.
Through 12 games, he’s racked up 35 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks. According to Pro Football Focus, he holds the highest pass-rushing grade among all Crimson Tide edge defenders.
That’s not just production-that’s impact.
And against Mendoza, Alabama’s going to need all the impact it can muster. The Indiana quarterback has been electric all season, carving up defenses with a mix of poise, precision, and big-play ability.
If Overton is indeed back in the fold, it gives the Tide another high-motor rusher who can collapse the pocket and make Mendoza uncomfortable. That’s not just a bonus-it could be a difference-maker.
This quarterfinal showdown at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day is already shaping up to be a heavyweight battle. Alabama’s trying to punch its ticket to the semifinals, where the winner will face either fourth-seeded Texas Tech or fifth-seeded Oregon in the Peach Bowl on January 9. And while the Tide’s offense has been finding its rhythm, it’s the defense-and the potential return of a key piece like Overton-that could tilt the scales.
Stay tuned. If Overton’s “Back like I never left” turns out to be more than just a post, Alabama’s defensive front just got a whole lot tougher.