What Alabama Should Do If 5-Star RB Derrick Henry Spurns the Tide for Tennessee

5-star running back Derrick Henry will make his decision between Tennessee and Alabama this Friday afternoon. And even though it would seem like the Crimson Tide should be the favorite considering their reputation, what if the talented running back decides to play for the Volunteers?

That's the day pigs will fly. Right, Alabama fans?

Believe it or not, though, as dominant as Nick Saban and the Tide have been on the field and in recruiting, the fact that Tennessee is still in the running for Henry means that the Volunteers at the very least have a shot to come away with his commitment.

Henry has spoken highly of the program, and for a while, I actually did think Alabama should be worried about his visit to Tennessee. Even though I changed my tune after further thought and review, I firmly believe Alabama still needs to have a backup plan just in case.

So, what does Alabama do if Henry spurns the Tide for the Volunteers?

It's simple: Move on.

While Henry would be the preferable choice with his skill set, he isn't the only big-name running back interested in the Crimson Tide. According to 247Sports, 4-star running back Alvin Kamara has 'Bama second, right behind Georgia on his interest list. So Saban and his staff could really start focusing on trying to bring him in.

The other option is a bit more realistic, though. Sometimes, it's best to just cut your losses and work with what you have. Alabama already has two other running back commits in 4-stars Altee Tenpenny and Tyren Jones, so the team really is set at the position.

And the Tide are really set when you consider that T.J. Yeldon is only a freshman, as is Kenyan Drake—who's run for three touchdowns on the year so far.

Henry would just be a nice upgrade for the recruiting class and yet another elite running back to throw on the depth chart for Saban. It would be great to get him to commit, but if they don't, the Crimson Tide should probably just move on and focus on other areas of need for the 2013 class.