Alabama Linebacker Qua Russaw and Defensive Back DaShawn Jones Expected to be Game-Time Decisions

It will come down to the wire on whether Alabama will return two starters on Saturday on the defensive side of the ball, with linebacker Qua Russaw nursing a broken foot that he suffered in Alabama's 24-21 win over Georgia in September. Russaw had been listed as 'out' on every SEC availability report before this week against the Sooners, where he was listed as 'questionable' on both Wednesday and Thursday.

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Defensive back DaShawn Jones was a surprise addition to the availability report this week after not being listed leading up to LSU. Jones is Alabama's starter at Husky, formerly known as star in Nick Saban's defensive scheme.

On Friday, On3's Pete Nakos reported that both players will be game-time decisions on Saturday for Alabama's 2:30 p.m. kickoff against No. 11 Oklahoma. Russaw has started three games for Alabama this season, but all three came in September (ULM, Wisconsin, Georgia) after Alabama's season-opening loss to Florida State. Russaw has totaled three tackles and one sack on the season for the Crimson Tide.

DaShawn Jones has started every game for Alabama this season at Husky after transferring to Alabama from Wake Forest before the 2024 season. During the 2025 season, Jones has totaled 16 tackles and one pick-six. The interception return came in Alabama's 29-22 victory over South Carolina.

If Russaw can't go, Alabama will continue to rely on redshirt sophomore Yhonzae Pierre, who has started five games this season for Alabama after Russaw's injury. He's compiled 31 tackles, a team-leading six sacks (five since week five), and three forced fumbles on the season.

If Jones can't go, Alabama will likely turn to sophomore defensive back Red Morgan, who has rotated at Husky alongside Jones this season. Morgan has 11 total tackles and one pass breakup on the season.

Alabama and Oklahoma will kick off at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, November 15.

Wyatt Fulton is the Tide 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, primarily covering Alabama Crimson Tide football and men's basketball. For more Crimson Tide coverage, follow Wyatt on X (Formerly known as Twitter) at @FultonW_.