Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama Crimson Tide

It might have happened a year earlier than everyone thought but Coach Nick Saban has put Alabama back in the discussion as a national powerhouse. Last year seemed to be a dream year. The lines were huge (averaging over 300 lbs), they had an experienced senior quarterback John Parker Wilson that ended up breaking Alabama’s passing records, and a solid senior running back. Saban’s squad by record appeared quite dominating, however this year will be a true test as they replace 2 All American’s on the offensive line, their starting running back and starting quarterback. If Saban is a good of a recruiter as ticketed, all should go well in Tuscaloosa.

OFFENSE

Last year Alabama was dominant up front. They were led by two 300+ pounders at the tackle positions that paved the way for the running game and gave John Parker Wilson the time needed to get the ball down the field efficiently. The Tide averaged 30.1 points a game last season. After the graduation of Wilson, the Tide are throwing an inexperienced junior Greg McElroy (8-11 for 123) into the fire to lead the Alabama offense. McElroy should be helped by sophomore standout Julio Jones who led the team in 924 receiving yards last season. Jones is a huge target that can stretch the field for the Crimson Tide. The running back situation appeared ready for Glen Coffee’s departure as the backfield is more experienced than last year. Sophomore Mark Ingram should get the bulk of the carries but look for a solid rotation of 2-3 backs. The line once again will be staunch but will take a step back due to the loss of two All Americans at tackle and guard.

DEFENSE

The Tide’s strong point last year was the defensive side of the ball. Entering last season it was the defense with all the question marks. They returned only 5 players, however this unit grew up in a hurry. At season’s end they were the 2nd best defense in all college football and held teams to just 74 rushing yards a game. Just as on offense the defense will be led by a heavy line. In the offseason, Terrence Cody (6 ‘5, 365) nose guard decided to stay one more year in Tuscaloosa. With Cody’s return the Tide appear ready once again to be one of the top defensive units in college football.

SEASONAL PREDICTIONS

Hopes run high in Alabama every year and sometimes expectations far to lofty. This year however, the expectations are a reality. Nick Saban continues to recruit the some of the top classes and has great depth at every position. Alabama is here to stay in the national discussion for title contender for years to come. However last year was a year sooner than everyone thought. The Tide did go unbeaten in the regular season but following the beat down in Athens (41-30 W), the Tide played not to lose defeating Kentucky by only 3 and a rebuilding LSU in overtime. The close wins could have easily went the other way but with senior leadership at the quarterback position the Tide were able to roll through the SEC and make it to the Sugar Bowl. In the Sugar Bowl the Tide were exposed by Utah. With the suspension of All American tackle Andre Smith, the Tide rushed for just 31 yards and were sacked a total of 8 times. This year’s task is to replace Smith AND Caldwell (another offensive line leader). It’s too much for a new quarterback to have to battle with. Bama could open the season with a non-conference loss to Virginia Tech. Look for a few blemishes on their record and a Non-BCS bowl.

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