Mark Ingram Out for Opener Against San Jose State

Alabama junior running back Mark Ingram's run for a second Heisman Trophy in as many years will have to wait at least another week.

Ingram underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee early Tuesday morning, performed by Dr. James Andrews, after he injured the knee late in practice on Monday.

"This is not an injury that will affect Mark's future ability to make a full recovery in a relatively short time," Coach Nick Saban said.

Obviously the decision was made knowing Alabama hosts San Jose State on Saturday. The Spartans allowed 34.5 points per game last year. While Ingram's status remains a week-to-week issue it would seem unlikely that he will be ready to go when the Crimson Tide play No. 19 Penn State on September 11th.

Ingram ran for 1,658 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns on his way to winning the Heisman Trophy last year. So where will Alabama go to now that Ingram is unavailable?

Step in Trent Richardson.

The stocky 5'11" sophomore running back from Pensacola averaged more yards per rush last year than Ingram. Some have even speculated that he is even better than Ingram. No pressure, right?

Considering Alabama finished ranked 92nd in passing yards per game in 2009 I wouldn’t look at Julio Jones to be the answer, simply because Greg McElroy isn't exactly noted for his arm.

The Crimson Tide should have no problem with the Spartans this Saturday but the true test will come against the Nittany Lions if Ingram is unable to go again next week.