2023 Record: 12-2 (8-0)
AP Ranking: 5
Head Coach: Kalen DeBoer
Out goes Nick Saban, enter Kalen DeBoer. The general consensus is that Alabama will take a step down in the long term, but I expect the short term to be bolstered by the change at the top. That is no knock on Saban, the greatest college football coach of all time; rather, a testament to the offensive prowess DeBoer is bringing to Tuscaloosa this Fall.
The defense will be called by Kane Wommack this season, who left South Alabama’s head coaching role, to rejoin DeBoer. It was noted this off-season that Wommack met with Saban on multiple occasions to discuss the defensive formation change (moving from a 3-4 to a 4-2-5).
Alabama’ identity for the past two decades has been a stifling defense and the emphasis remains on that side of the ball for the new staff. They return six starters and bring in Domani Jackson from USC. Their biggest concern is on the perimeter at cornerback, they will need some younger players to make a stride heading into the season.
The biggest difference maker and the potential upside come from the offensive side of the ball. Deboer’s offense finished Top 2 in passing yards each of the last two seasons. Not to mention, his offense led a Pac-12 squad to the CFP Championship Game. Now he enters a program with more resources, more talent and a tradition of winning.
Jalen Milroe is known for his ability to run the ball, but he is a much better thrower than most fans give him credit for. He ranked 6th last season of all eligible D-I quarterbacks in Passing Efficiency Rating. Partner him with one of the greatest offensive minds in college football, I would expect his name next to the Heisman trophy at the end of the season.
DeBoer’s greatest weakness in the past has been his rushing attack, averaging just 4.1 yards per carry last season. Alabama projects to start former 5-Star Sophomore, Justice Haynes. On limited work last season, he averaged 6.7 yards per carry. If the running game can be an option in DeBoer’s offense, there’s no telling where this thing can go.
Alabama will be one of my picks to make the College Football Playoff this season. They face off with Georgia in Week 4 in Tuscaloosa. DeBoer will earn the hearts of the fanbase if he can steal one early in the season against the defending SEC Champs.
JBJ Sports Talk 
Leave a comment