Alabama Gets a Key Piece Back: LT Overton Returns for Rose Bowl Clash vs. Indiana
For Alabama senior defensive end LT Overton, watching the Crimson Tide’s postseason push from the sideline wasn’t just frustrating - it was painful. Not because he didn’t believe in his team, but because he couldn’t be out there with them.
After going down following the Iron Bowl win over Auburn, Overton missed both the SEC Championship Game loss to Georgia and the College Football Playoff first-round win over Oklahoma. Now, he’s back - and just in time.
“It was mostly an internal health problem,” Overton said, keeping the specifics close to the vest. “It was heartbreaking. But I’m back on the field now, so I can’t complain.”
Overton’s return is more than just a feel-good story - it’s a serious boost for Alabama’s defensive front. With 33 tackles and four sacks this season, he’s been one of the Tide’s most disruptive edge defenders. His ability to collapse the pocket and hold the edge has been a key part of Alabama’s defensive identity, and his absence was felt, especially against Georgia’s balanced attack in the SEC title game.
Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack noted that Overton stayed in shape during his time away, crediting Alabama’s strength and conditioning program for keeping him as close to game-ready as possible.
“Everybody says ‘Built by Bama,’ but it’s really Built by Ballou in this program,” Overton said, shouting out strength coach David Ballou. “He made sure I was getting in-game attention as far as staying in shape.
Not just speed mechanics but also conditioning. It’s a different type of conditioning trying to move 300-pounders, and he’s gotten me back to a point where I’m feeling good again.”
That “different type of conditioning” is no joke - especially for a defensive lineman in the trenches. It’s not just about sprinting or staying lean; it’s about having the stamina to fight off double teams, set the edge, and chase mobile quarterbacks deep into the fourth quarter. Overton sounds like a player who’s ready to do all of that and more.
And Alabama’s timing couldn’t be better. The Tide face Indiana in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal on Thursday (3 p.m. CT, ESPN), and with a CFP semifinal berth on the line, getting a high-motor pass rusher like Overton back in the mix could tilt the balance.
If Overton is anywhere near his pre-injury form, Alabama’s front seven just got a whole lot tougher. And in a playoff setting where every snap matters, that could make all the difference.