Malachi Moore expected to return from injury, play vs. Tennessee

Alabama defensive back Malachi Moore is expected to play and return from injury against Tennessee, according to On3’s Matt Zenitz.

Moore will likely return in time for kickoff, but he’ll go through pregame warmups first. Head coach Nick Saban liked Moore’s chances to return against the Volunteers.

Moore missed the win over Arkansas last week due to an ankle injury.

Moore went down with a twisted ankle during the Texas A&M game two weeks ago, so this is a rather positive update for him. The injury occurred in the second quarter and saw Moore unable to put any pressure on his right leg. 

After he spent time in the medical tent, Moore sat in the front seat of a cart and went to the locker room. He was on Alabama’s sideline in the second half in street clothes with a walking boot on his foot.

In six games this season, Moore has 29 total tackles, 14 solo tackles, four tackles for loss, one interception and two pass deflections. Over the course of his career, Moore has 120 total tackles, 71 solo tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, five interceptions, 14 pass deflections, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble.

As a member of the Class of 2020, Moore was a four-star recruit out of Trussville (Ala.) Hewitt, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 7 overall prospect in the state, the No. 13 safety in the class and the No. 188 overall prospect in the class.

As Alabama continues its preparation for Tennessee’s visit to Tuscaloosa, Saban needs all hands on deck if the Crimson Tide want to get their win back from the Vols from one year ago. While various injuries haven’t seemed to hinder Alabama’s winning way over the past few weeks, Tennessee presents arguably the toughest test remaining on their schedule this season.

The opening kickoff for Saturday’s matchup between the Crimson Tide and Volunteers is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET live on CBS. Alabama is an 8.5-point favorite over Tennessee heading into the final stretch of game week, per FanDuel Sportsbook. The over/under point total is set at 48.5 points.

Barkley Truax contributed to this report