Caleb Downs 'loses lunch' vs. Texas, unsure if he can return

When Alabama took the field to begin the second half, freshman safety Caleb Downs was not there. In fact, he may not play another snap for the Crimson Tide on Saturday night against Texas. An unusual reason to be left out of a game could keep Downs on the sideline.

ESPN’s Holly Rowe revealed Downs has “lost his lunch.” Play-by-play commentator Chris Fowler joked with Rowe, asking if that’s the official medical term. Either way, Downs is not feeling his best and may be feeling a bit weak at the moment.

“One of the things to keep your eye on,” Rowe began. “Caleb Downs, their phenomenal freshman safety. He is on the sideline. He’s lost his lunch. He’s not doing well. Not sure if he can return to this game.”

Downs has been an impressive player from the moment he stepped foot on campus. Not too many freshmen get the remarks he did heading into a season. If he is not able to return to the field, the Alabama secondary is going to be taking a huge loss.

UPDATE: Since the original report from Rowe, Downs has made his way back onto the field.

Downs played high school football at Hoschton (GA) Mill Creek, where he was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect. He was the No. 5 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Nick Saban impressed with how Caleb Downs played in season opener

Downs has been impressing in more than just practice. When Alabama opened the season against Middle Tennessee State, Saban was happy with how the freshman safety played. A ton of qualities Saban looks for in an experienced defensive back is already possessed by Downs.

“I think Caleb played, you know, really well,” Saban said. “He plays fast, he’s physical. I think that was a really challenging game, especially for a young player to have to play with all the formations and adjustments that we had to make. And I think he handled it really, really well.”

Plenty of big moments are ahead of Downs throughout his college career. The opener was a great start but more is going to be needed. Alabama finds itself down at halftime to Texas, needing a big second half to pull away with a win.

Those favoring Alabama will be hoping Downs finds a way to make a difference.