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Opting out of college football bowl games has become a trend over the last few years and when you combine that with a pandemic, you’ll see it more than ever. We scoured the internet to find the latest information on which players have opted out of their bowl game for whatever reason as well as injury updates on players who are banged up and might be unable to go.
The College Football Playoff is a whole lot different than any type of bowl game because players can make a name for themselves on a national stage, so it’s unlikely we’ll see any opt outs for either the Alabama Crimson Tide or Notre Dame Fighting Irish as we get closer to kickoff for the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Alabama roster update
Injury
Offensive lineman Landon Dickerson injured his knee during the SEC title game and already has undergone surgery, so he will be unavailable for this game. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has been out since an ankle injury on Oct. 24 and has yet to return to practice, so he won’t be able to go. Defensive lineman LaBryan Ray has an elbow injury and hasn’t returned to practice, according to head coach Nick Saban.
Notre Dame roster update
Injury
Star defensive back Kyle Hamilton injured his ankle in the ACC title game but should be ready to go, head coach Brian Kelly said. Wide receiver Braden Lenzy has dealt with hamstring issues this season, but he will be playing. Defensive lineman Jayson Ademilola has been battling with a knee injury, though he returned against Clemson.