Eddie Jackson spoke to Alabama's defensive backs prior to Saturday's game against LSU.

The speech was powerful and emotional.

It was the Tide's first game since the star senior safety suffered a season-ending leg injury that effectively ended his college career as a player.

According to cornerback Marlon Humphrey, Jackson told the defensive backs: "If this was your last game, how would you play?"

Humphrey said Jackson later began crying as he said, "Man, I wish I could be out there."

Even though he's out, Jackson is still contributing for Alabama, still serving as a leader and a motivator while transitioning into a coach-like role.

"I look over at the sideline, he just reminds me of things during the game," Humphrey said. "Before the game, he was right there in the huddle with us as we were about to go out there on the field in the (defensive back huddle). I think having him on the sideline is kind of just like an assistant coach to me."

Alabama players have dedicated the season to Jackson.

Players wrote messages like "Do it for 4" and "4 for 4" on their accessories for the LSU game.

One of them was Minkah Fitzpatrick, whom coach Nick Saban moved from cornerback into Jackson's vacated spot at strong safety.

In his first game at safety, Fitzpatrick had an important fourth quarter interception while helping Alabama limit LSU to 125 yards of total offense during a 10-0 win.

The performance came after some pre-game advice from Jackson.

Fitzpatrick said Jackson told him before the game, "If you mess up, just get your head up, get up and move on to the next play. And if you're doing well, just keep staying focused and disciplined."