Alabama fans will get a special tribute to one of the program’s most historic players this weekend. Former Crimson Tide running back Mark Ingram is scheduled to receive a National Football Foundation (NFF) Hall of Fame on‑campus salute during the home game against South Carolina on Saturday, Sept. 26, at Bryant‑Denny Stadium.
Game‑day honor
The ceremony will take place before kickoff, which is set for 6 p.m. Central Time on Saban Field. The event will be televised nationally on ESPN, giving the state and the broader college‑football community a chance to celebrate Ingram’s contributions to Alabama football.
Why Ingram matters
Ingram’s legacy is tied to Alabama’s 2009 national‑championship season, the year he became the school’s first Heisman Trophy winner. In the championship run, he posted a career‑high 246 rushing yards and a touchdown on 24 carries in a decisive 20‑6 victory over South Carolina in Tuscaloosa. That performance helped the Crimson Tide finish an undefeated 14‑0 season and secure the national title.
National Football Foundation President and CEO Steve Hatchell praised Ingram in the release announcing the salute, saying, “Mark Ingram will always hold a special place in Alabama football history. He was the school’s first Heisman Trophy winner, and he played such a huge role in that undefeated 2009 national championship season.”
Hall of Fame induction
Ingram was named to the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame class on Jan. 14. He will become the 28th former Alabama player or coach to be enshrined, joining the likes of Antonio Langham (inducted 2024) and former head coach Nick Saban (inducted 2025). The on‑campus salute will include the presentation of an NFF Hall of Fame plaque that will remain on permanent display at the university.
His formal enshrinement is slated for Tuesday, Dec. 8, when the entire 2026 class will gather at the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner in Las Vegas.
Life after football
Since retiring from the NFL, Ingram has worked as an analyst for FOX Sports, providing insight and commentary on college football broadcasts. His continued involvement with the sport underscores his lasting connection to the game and to Alabama’s proud football tradition.
What fans can expect
The game itself promises to be a competitive matchup, with South Carolina traveling to Tuscaloosa for the first time since Ingram’s record‑setting performance. Local fans are encouraged to arrive early to witness the salute and then enjoy the on‑field action that follows. Tickets are available through the university’s official ticketing channels, and the game will be streamed live on ESPN for those unable to attend in person.
Mark Ingram’s upcoming honor highlights the deep roots of Alabama football and offers a reminder of the program’s storied past as the Crimson Tide looks ahead to another promising season.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
