Who steps up for Alabama on defense versus Kentucky if two marquee starters do not play?

Alabama football has two injuries on defense ahead of the Kentucky game. 

Deontae Lawson (linebacker) and Jaylen Key (safety) sustained injuries versus Louisiana State University. 

The Crimson Tide earned a 42-28 victory over the Tigers, but Nick Saban has Lawson and Key as ‘questionable’ for Saturday’s matchup against the Wildcats. A win for Alabama on the road would clinch a Southeastern Conference Western Division title.

Lawson and Key have not practiced this week, but both have been successful all season.

Jihaad Campbell, a sophomore, would replace Lawson at weakside linebacker if Lawson does not play. The former five-star has played well all year, especially against Tennessee. Campbell returned a fumble for a touchdown versus the Volunteers. Kendrick Blackshire would also gain playing time on Saturday if Lawson can’t go. Blackshire, a native Texan, would back up Campbell.

Kristian Story would be the immediate backup for Key at free safety. If the Tide does not go the route of playing Story, it could move Malachi Moore to free safety, move Terrion Arnold to ‘Star,’ and put Trey Amos at cornerback. We will see what Coach Saban and the Crimson Tide choose to do. It has many options to pick from, but it is ready to deliver a complete game.