Crimson Tide Faces Potential Lineup Changes Ahead of Missouri Showdown

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The Alabama Crimson Tide is contemplating a shift in its starting lineup as it prepares to face Missouri on Wednesday at 8 p.m. CT. Head coach Nate Oats hinted at the changes during a press conference, indicating that the current lineup, which includes Mark Sears, Chris Youngblood, Jarin Stevenson, Grant Nelson, and Cliff Omoruyi, may not be set in stone following a disappointing performance against Auburn.

“We are going to experiment a little bit with some of that stuff, making sure there’s enough guys who can create offense,” Oats said. “We did take a good hard look at that the last couple days.” This comes after a game where Alabama registered just eight assists, marking a season low.

The potential adjustments revolve around integrating more scoring creators into the lineup to enhance offensive efficiency. Oats explored various scenarios, pondering if more creators like Labaron Philon or Aden Holloway could be paired with Sears. Each creator offers distinct advantages; for instance, Holloway and Sears both possess scoring abilities that can complement each other.

Oats emphasized the necessity of having at least one creator on the floor, especially following the recent offensive struggles. “Mark’s probably the only creator in the starting lineup. It helps to have Mark and Holloway or Mark and Labaron together,” he noted. Youngblood, while valuable with his shooting and leadership, may be the player most at risk of being replaced in the starting five, with Philon being a strong candidate for that position.

In addition to lineup changes, Alabama may also operate without freshman forward Derrion Reid against Missouri. Reid, who recently returned from injury, suffered another setback with his hamstring and is doubtful for the game. Oats disclosed that Reid is undergoing yet another MRI to assess his condition.

“Hopefully the MRI shows up clean, maybe all the swelling, inflammation, whatever it is goes out, maybe he can go,” Oats said. Reid has shown promising potential throughout the season, having been rated as the No. 11 recruit in his class and recognized as a McDonald’s All-American.

As the regular season approaches its conclusion, Alabama has a challenging schedule that includes matchups against teams ranked in the top 25. This sequence presents an opportunity for the Crimson Tide to learn from recent adversity.

“We got six tough games. We gotta be ready for every last one of them. Sometimes it makes you better,” Oats said, referencing the team’s need to adapt and grow stronger in the wake of previous losses. The upcoming game against Missouri promises to be a critical test for Alabama as they seek to rebound and build momentum for what lies ahead.

The game will be broadcast live on the SEC Network. Alabama is scheduled to tip off against Missouri at 8 p.m. CT in Columbia.