Alabama Football Faces Eastern Illinois Without Key Players

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.— The Alabama Crimson Tide will host the Eastern Illinois Panthers on October 7, 2025, in their final home game of the regular season. The team is looking to recover from a disappointing loss to Oklahoma last week. Unfortunately for Alabama, they will be missing several key players due to injuries.

Three offensive starters will not take the field against the Panthers: wide receiver Germie Bernard, center Parker Brailsford, and tight end Josh Cuevas. Bernard and Brailsford suffered injuries during the game against Oklahoma. Although both returned to action after their respective injuries, the coaching staff has opted to rest them against Eastern Illinois as a precautionary measure.

Cuevas recently sustained a foot injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined for some time. He had just enjoyed the best game of his career, recording 80 receiving yards and a touchdown against the Sooners.

In Cuevas’s absence, Alabama will rely on substitutes Kaleb Edwards, Jay Lindsey, and Danny Lewis Jr. to fill the tight end position. To replace Brailsford, Joseph Ionata is next in line on the depth chart. Wide receiver options are abundant for Alabama, with players such as Derek Meadows, Rico Scott, and Cole Adams ready to step up for Bernard.

Brailsford has been a vital component of Alabama’s offensive line this season. The redshirt junior serves as one of the team’s four captains and has been recognized as a Midseason All-American by the Sporting News. He has also earned the title of SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week on two occasions.

Bernard has established himself as Alabama’s leading receiver this season, consistently recording at least 50 receiving yards in all but two games. He currently leads the team with 48 receptions, 676 receiving yards, and six touchdowns. His performance ranks him among the top ten in the Southeastern Conference for these statistical categories.

In addition to the offensive absences, Alabama will also be without three other players. Defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr. has been suspended indefinitely following an arrest during the team’s second bye week. Sixth-year senior Jah-Marien Latham is out for the remainder of the season due to a neck injury sustained in practice in September. Jeremiah Beaman, a defensive lineman, is also out after suffering a knee injury in practice following the game against Florida State.

As the Crimson Tide prepares for this crucial game, fans will be eager to see how the team adapts to these challenges. Live updates on player injuries and game developments will be available, ensuring supporters stay informed throughout the match.