Nick Saban praises Jase McClellan for skill, mindset on the field

In Alabama‘s last two outings, running back Jase McClellan has stepped up as their lead back as Jahmyr Gibbs has been battling an ankle injury. McClellan has led the Crimson Tide in rushing in their last two outings, helping propel their offense and team toward two straight victories. Head coach Nick Saban was asked what he’s learned about McClellan in these last two weeks, and gave an interesting response.

“Well Jase played well for us last year, Jase was a really good player last year until he got hurt so I haven’t learned anything about him, I’ve always thought he was a really good player” Saban said. “I think you’re all just starting to figure it out.”

McClellan only appeared in five games last year before his season was cut short due to an injury, but made the most out of his opportunities recording 191 rushing yards on 41 carries and one touchdown. He also proved himself as a weapon out of the backfield catching the ball with 10 catches for 97 yards and three receiving touchdowns as well.

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He’s only built on what he started last year, establishing himself as one of the best backup running backs in the nation behind Gibbs with 569 rushing yards, five touchdowns on the ground, along with two touchdown grabs. His ability to get tough yards for the Crimson Tide offense presented the question Saban, is it his skill or mindset that’s lead to his recent success?

“Well I think it’s a combination of both, I think people who have skill, if they don’t have the right mindset they don’t ever play to the potential of what their skill is. So I think that’s the case in anything that any of us do to be the best version of what we want to be whatever we chose to do,” Saban said.

Saban elaborated on the skills that McClellan brings to the table, and it sounds like he checks about every single box you’d want out of a running back.

“And Jase is tough, he’s physical, he can make you miss, he’s got a burst, he’s a good receiver, he’s a good blocker, so I think it’s a combination of both,” Saban said.

The Crimson Tide are hoping to get Gibbs back soon, but it’s nice for them to know they’re in good hands with McClellan, as he’s rushed for 240 yards and two touchdowns in their last two matchups.