Alabama WR Foster needs shoulder surgery

On Monday, Alabama coach Nick Saban announced Foster will be out for “a while” with a severe shoulder injury.

Following Saturday’s 43-37 loss to Ole Miss, Alabama coach Nick Saban addressed what he liked and what he didn’t during his weekly Monday press conference. Asked for a timetable on Foster’s return, he said he’ll be out “for a while”.

The former Florida State backup had passed for 427 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception on an overthrown deep ball against Middle Tennessee.

Saban said the offense still hasn’t found its identity.

“It feels so comfortable, the team’s so comfortable with each other, and we’re not anxious about anybody else or even the West rankings”, Ole Miss defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche said.

Coker had started the previous two games.

Alabama had won 17 straight at home coming into the game to tie Baylor for the longest active streak in FBS, another milestone snapped by a feisty Ole Miss team that’s established itself as an SEC contender under Freeze. “I was really happy about it, to be honest with you”. I think we just need to come back with a positive attitude and just look to move forward. “But I still think that what I’m talking about applies to all positions, not only quarterback”.

Saban said he expects Coker to start Saturday against Louisiana-Monroe, ahead of a visit to No. 7 Georgia. We’re going to try to do the right things.

Coker was 21-of-44 passing for 201 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Mazza out: Tide long snapper Cole Mazza did not play in the Tide’s loss to Ole Miss.

“Jake came into the game and played with some passion and showed great leadership and energy when he played”, Saban said. Richard Mullaney is certainly playing very well.

Henry, a junior, rushed for 127 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries against the Rebels.

Quarterback Cooper Bateman has made his first start for No. 2 Alabama. The Rebels played solid team defense in the final minute, forcing Alabama’s Jake Coker into four straight incompletions to seal the victory.

Coker led two touchdown drives in a span of 2:03 late in the fourth quarter, aided by an onside kick. Mullaney finished with 61 receiving yards on seven catches, both career bests at Alabama.