Alabama may be a massive favorite to beat Notre Dame in the upcoming Rose Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game — the Crimson Tide are favored by 20 points in the matchup — but there’s no doubt Nick Saban would prefer his team to be at full strength heading into the elimination game.

During his Monday Rose Bowl media availability, Saban was asked to provide the latest updates on two Alabama players that are battling back from injuries — defensive lineman LaBryan Ray and receiver Jaylen Waddle.

Ray has been limited this season by an elbow injury and has not seen the field since the Kentucky game back on Nov. 21. Ray was listed as questionable for the 2020 SEC Championship Game but failed to play in the game.

“LaBryan Ray is not practicing, he is still rehabbing,” Saban answered.

When it comes to Jaylen Waddle, who suffered an injury to his ankle against Tennessee back on Oct. 24, it appears there’s little chance the receiver is able to go against the Irish.

“Jaylen’s rehab is coming along,” Saban added. “He’s doing dry-run running, still working to try and get back. But he is making progress. We are happy to see him go out and run and do some things but he’s not back yet.”

The Rose Bowl between Alabama and Notre Dame is scheduled to be played Friday, Jan. 1.