Alabama Defensive Lineman LT Overton Set to Return for Alabama in Rose Bowl Showdown

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Alabama’s defense is getting a major boost at exactly the right time.

Senior Bandit LT Overton has been cleared to play and is expected to be available when the No. 9 Crimson Tide face No. 1 Indiana in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day.

Overton missed Alabama’s previous two games while dealing with a health-related issue, but all signs now point to his return for one of the biggest stages in college football.

The first indication came straight from Overton himself. Just hours before reports surfaced, the veteran defender posted a simple but confident message on social media: “Back like I never left.” 

Not long after, CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported that Overton had been cleared and that the plan is for him to play against the Hoosiers.

Earlier in the week, head coach Kalen DeBoer had left the door open, emphasizing that Overton’s status was still being evaluated but that he had not been ruled out. That cautious optimism has now turned into welcome news for an Alabama defense preparing for a high-powered Indiana offense in the College Football Playoff.

Overton’s return matters a lot.

In 12 regular-season games, the senior was one of Alabama’s most consistent and disruptive defenders. He finished the year with 35 total tackles, including 21 solo stops, along with six tackles for loss and four sacks. Overton also added four quarterback hurries, routinely pressuring opposing quarterbacks and setting the tone on the edge. His versatility at the Bandit position has been a key piece of Alabama’s defensive identity, allowing flexibility in both pass rush and run defense.

Beyond the stat sheet, Overton brings experience, leadership, and physicality, all things that become magnified in postseason football. His presence strengthens Alabama’s rotation up front and gives the Crimson Tide another proven playmaker capable of changing momentum with a single snap.

As Alabama prepares for its Rose Bowl matchup with Indiana, getting LT Overton back on the field feels like more than just good news, it feels like a timely reminder of how dangerous this defense can be when it’s whole.

On college football’s grandest stage, Alabama is getting one of its anchors back.

Roll Tide! 

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