Nick Saban provides update on injured Alabama star DB Minkah Fitzpatrick

The Alabama Crimson Tide defense has been ravaged by injuries so far this year, and that problem got worse on Saturday against LSU.

However, one of the most alarming sights was star DB Minkah Fitzpatrick going down early with a hamstring injury. Though he played for much of the rest of the game, he wasn’t at full-strength.

As the Tide prepare for a game at Mississippi State on Saturday, though, coach Nick Saban said he expects the star defender to be back in action:

Saban on Minkah Fitzpatrick: "He's done well in practice. He's worked, he's got his reps, so he's going to be prepared to play in the game."

— Charlie Potter (@Charlie_Potter) November 8, 2017

Fitzpatrick serves as the quarterback of the defense, so having him out there is critical for communication and getting other players lined up correctly, especially in the secondary.

The Crimson Tide will be without LBs Mack Wilson and Shaun Dion Hamilton, both of whom were injured against LSU. Having Fitzpatrick back will help the Tide overcome their depleted linebacking corps.