MIAMI – Alabama quarterback Jaylen Waddle played Monday at the National College Football Playoff Championships on Monday against Ohio State, although he was expected to be limited, according to coach Nick Saban.
Waddle has been out since breaking his right ankle against Tennessee on Oct. 24.
Meanwhile, Ohio State was without starting striker Tommy Togiai, defensive end Tyreke Smith and kicker Blake Haubeil.
A total of 13 players were included in the Ohio state unavailability report, including two other defensive linemen. Spare kicker Dominic DiMaccio is also not available.
In a message posted on Instagram, Haubeil said he gave positive results to COVID-19 and is asymptomatic, but is extremely upset that he misses the game.
“I’ve spent the last four months making sacrifices and I haven’t seen family and friends all at once … Knowing that I have so much more to offer and I don’t have the opportunity to do that tonight, it’s one of the worst feelings I’ve ever had. I never had, “he wrote.
Without Togiai, Jerron Cage was expected to have an extended game time. Backup Ty Hamilton is also unavailable. If Smith leaves, Tyler Friday will be the next player.
Buckeyei headed for freshman Jake Seibert to kick. Seibert made 13 extra point attempts and missed his only goal attempt.