With the matchup in Death Valley between Alabama and LSU fast-approaching, LSU’s movement to “#FreeDevinWhite” does not seem to have worked.

White, considered one of the elite linebackers in the country, was ejected on a controversial targeting call in the second half of the Tigers’ win over Mississippi State, causing him to miss the first half of Alabama game.

Alabama has been an offensive juggernaut so far this season behind the play of sophomore quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and the Crimson Tide plans to take advantage of White’s absence in the first half, possibly by deploying two tight end sets.

“I think a lot” said Alabama senior tight end Hale Hentges when asked how the tight ends would impact the game, “Twelve personnel, we obviously have two tight ends in the game, it’s an excellent time for myself and Irv [Smith Jr.] to make an impact.”

Hentges is primarily a blocking tight end, with just two touchdowns this season. Junior Irv Smith Jr. has been more of a weapon in the receiving game, hauling in five touchdowns. According to Hentges, offensive coordinator Mike Locksley and the Alabama offensive staff believe both will help them create favorable matchups.

“It’s no secret that Irv especially has been a weapon for us this year and we can really use him because a lot of time people are keying on our great wide receivers” continued Hentges, “We have phenomenal wide receivers who stretch the field and make it tough for defensive backs. A lot of times that leaves the middle of the field open and in the short.

“We can hopefully take advantage of that hopefully we can also make a big impact in the run game. That’s what we continue to work for every single day and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

LSU will look to stay in the game until White is eligible in the second half, however that is not something anyone has done against Alabama this season.

Granted, this will be by far Alabama’s toughest test of the regular season up to this point, and Death Valley will be rocking in the first half, with or without Devin White.