### **Jam Miller Injuries: How Kalen DeBoer Handled a Challenging Circumstance Two Years Prior**

### **Jam Miller Injuries: How Kalen DeBoer Handled a Challenging Circumstance Two Years Prior**

 

The Alabama Crimson Tide took a major hit this week when it was confirmed that standout running back Jam Miller sustained an upper-body injury during a weekend scrimmage. The senior back, who led Alabama in rushing yards last season, underwent a medical procedure and is now expected to miss at least the season opener against Florida State—possibly more.

For most programs, losing a key player weeks before kickoff could signal panic. But under head coach Kalen DeBoer, Alabama remains focused, composed, and most importantly—prepared. That’s because DeBoer has faced worse, and just two years ago, he proved he could guide a team through it.

Back in 2023, during his time as head coach at Washington, DeBoer was dealt a serious blow before the season even started. The Huskies lost projected starting running back Cameron Davis to a season-ending injury during fall camp. Davis was expected to be the engine of Washington’s backfield, and many questioned whether the Huskies had the depth or system to overcome such a loss.

Instead of folding, DeBoer pivoted—and thrived. He turned to transfer back Dillon Johnson, a relatively unproven talent from Mississippi State. Johnson not only stepped up, he exploded onto the national scene. By the end of the season, he had rushed for 1,195 yards and 16 touchdowns, becoming a key reason why Washington reached the College Football Playoff National Championship game.

It wasn’t just Johnson’s emergence that stood out—it was the system DeBoer built around him. Washington’s offensive line improved its run blocking, the passing game was adjusted to take pressure off the run, and DeBoer’s game planning allowed Johnson to play to his strengths. The team adapted quickly and efficiently, showing how flexible and resilient DeBoer’s coaching philosophy really is.

Fast forward to 2025, and DeBoer now finds himself in a similar predicament, only this time it’s on an even bigger stage. Jam Miller was expected to be the workhorse in Alabama’s backfield. With over 660 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, he had earned the trust of his teammates and coaches alike. His injury leaves a void—but not a crisis.

Behind Miller, Alabama has a number of promising options, including sophomore Daniel Hill, transfer Dre Washington, and redshirt freshman Kevin Riley. Among them, Hill has drawn the most buzz in camp, with DeBoer praising his power, hands, and football IQ. Much like Dillon Johnson in 2023, Hill could be poised for a breakout.

The coaching staff’s confidence hasn’t wavered. DeBoer’s experience navigating tough injuries—and turning them into opportunity—gives Alabama fans hope that the offense will stay on track.

While losing Jam Miller is undeniably a setback, the program is in steady hands. If history is any indication, Kalen DeBoer will find a way—not just to patch the gap—but to turn adversity into advantage, just as he did two years ago.

Alabama’s season opener looms large, but DeBoer has proven that even in the face of injury, the Tide can still roll.