He attended Grand Blanc Community High School in Grand Blanc, Michigan, before transferring to Flint Southwestern Academy, where he completed his high school education. Ingram excelled in both football and track and field, recording personal bests of 10.69 seconds in the 100 meters and 21.9 seconds in the 200 meters. His combination of speed and strength contributed to him being named his team’s Most Valuable Player and Area Player of the Year.

College Career at the University of Alabama

Ingram received an athletic scholarship to the University of Alabama, where he played for the Alabama Crimson Tide beginning in 2008. Known for his explosive running and solid tackling, he quickly established himself as a key player. As a freshman, he contributed meaningfully, but it was during his sophomore year in 2009 that he rose to national prominence.

He delivered a standout performance against South Carolina in October 2009, rushing for 246 yards—a career high. In the same season, he ran for 113 yards in Alabama's win over the then-undefeated Florida Gators in the SEC Championship Game. Recognized for his efforts, Ingram was named SEC Offensive Player of the Week more than once and ultimately won the Heisman Trophy in December 2009. He became the first player in Alabama history and one of only a few sophomores to ever earn this prestigious award.

Ingram’s success continued into the 2010 BCS National Championship Game, where Alabama defeated Texas. His role in the victory helped solidify his status as a unanimous First-Team All-American. He also received first-team honors from leading organizations such as the Associated Press, Walter Camp Football Foundation, and the Football Writers Association of America.