Texas A&M vs. Alabama: RB Eddie Lacy could return for Tide

Alabama head coach Nick Saban is feeling good about Eddie Lacy's chances to play Saturday against No. 15 Texas A&M.

The Crimson Tide's second-leading rusher behind freshman T.J. Yeldon, Lacy hurt his ankle in the fourth quarter of last Saturday's win over Louisiana State. The injury put an end to a productive day for Lacy, who had tallied 83 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. Lacy then sat out Monday's practice, putting his availability for Saturday in doubt. But the junior was able to put on the pads in Tuesday's practice session, and Saban told The Huntsville Times that he was "optimistic" Lacy would suit up against the Aggies.

No. 1 Alabama would certainly welcome Lacy's presence on the field. The junior has racked up 679 yards on the ground and a team-best eight touchdowns. He has also made a full recovery from a toe injury suffered last season that required offseason surgery.

Lacy and the Crimson Tide will face a stiff test in Texas A&M, which boasts the nation's 31st-best run defense. The Aggies will try to spoil Alabama's perfect record on Saturday when they travel to Tuscaloosa. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m.