Alabama might be heading into Kentucky the most injured it has been all year.

Nick Saban gave the prognosis during his weekly appearance on “Hey Coach.” One avid Crimson Tide fan called in and wanted to know the status of linebacker Deontae Lawson and defensive back Jaylen Key, particularly if they practiced on Thursday.

“They haven’t been able to practice much this week, so very questionable for this game,” Saban said. “Hopefully, we can get them back in the near future. It’s going to be an opportunity for some other guys to step up.”

On Wednesday, Saban revealed that both Lawson (ankle) and Key (quad) have yet to practice this week. If they didn’t practice on Thursday it would be “pretty tough” for them to make an appearance in this weekend’s game against Kentucky. The Crimson Tide travel to Lexington for an 11 a.m. kickoff.

Lawson missed Alabama’s Mississippi State win and Georgia transfer Trezmen Marshall overtook signal-calling duties for the defense. But as Marshall works his way back from bruised ribs, he’s split some more time with Jihaad Campbell. Earlier in the season, former five-star recruit Jeremiah Alexander transitioned from outside to inside linebacker.

In the secondary, Alabama’s cross-training has allowed versatility. Malachi Moore and Kristian Story have gotten more reps at safety next to Caleb Downs. At times, Terrion Arnold bounces from outside to star cornerback. Trey Amos then fills in opposite Kool-Aid McKinstry on the boundary.

“I think the depth of our team is younger than it’s been in the past. …. It takes a while for (freshmen) to develop. We’ve had a lot of guys on our team now that’ve had the opportunity to develop through the season. I would say our depth is better than it has been. But at some positions, we’re, we don’t have a lot of depth. It’s gonna be a challenging opportunity for some of the young players.”

Saban reiterated his point that the transfer portal has zapped Alabama’s depth and players who would’ve had opportunities this year are now starting elsewhere. Saban noted he’s turned on games and spotted former UA freshmen. Against LSU, Saban told sophomore Aaron Anderson he’d be playing more had he stayed in Tuscaloosa.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].