Alabama football’s defense was dealt a blow Saturday against Ole Miss, when linebacker Deontae Lawson went down with an injury in the second quarter. Lawson walked off the field under his own power but did not return to the game.

After Alabama’s 24-10 win, Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban gave an update on Lawson’s health. He said the injury was an ankle sprain.

“He’s gonna be day-to-day,” Saban said. “It’s a pretty good one so nobody knows exactly how long it will take for him to respond, so that’s all I can tell you about that one.”

Lawson has been one of Alabama’s leaders on defense throughout the season at inside linebacker. He finished Saturday’s game with one tackle and a hit on Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart.

The Crimson Tide saw a solid effort at the position from Jihaad Campbell, who finished second on the team with seven tackles. Still, if Lawson can’t go next week, it would be a blow to UA, which relied heavily on its defense throughout Saturday’s win.

Alabama will be on the road next Saturday, facing Mississippi State in Starkville.

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