By: Cory Lemer
For the first time since 2006, the yearly Rendition of A-day was led by someone other than Nick Saban. Following his abrupt retirement in January, Greg Byrne and Alabama were quick to reach out to Kalen Deboer. The former Washington coach led the Huskies to the National Championship, falling short of Jim Harbaugh’s Wolverines.
With over half the defense and many key players on offense declaring for the draft or entering the transfer portal, it left Deboer with many holes to fill before spring. Deboer made the correct hires in the offseason, bringing coaches like JaMarcus Sheppard and Nick Sheridan from Washington, promoting and keeping coaches like Freddie Roach and Robert Gillespie for stability, and pulling Kane Womack from South Alabama to fill a much-needed DC role. On paper, this team has potential to stay dominat, with the only question being how will the Tide perform on the field.
Notes
Coach Deboer installed a new system this year with the offense taking on defense instead of the 11V11 spring game Coach Saban liked. 34-28 was the final score, with the offense taking down the defense with a new scoring system. Below are my notes from this rendition of the game.
Nick Sheridan had the Tide offense looking amazing. Milroe, Simpson, Lonergan, and Washington Transfer Austin Mack made amazing plays. Germaine Bernard and Kendrick Law look to be the top two pass catchers next year, while the duo of Jam Miller and Justice Haynes could be the focal point if both can stay healthy.
More Sports News
Much like last year, the defense struggled early but found their footing, making it to the backfield and creating problem looks in coverage for the offense. Guys like Malachi Moore, Tim Keenan, and Tim Smith look to lead the Crimson defense in 2024.
Penalties have plagued the Tide in the previous two seasons and are still cause for concern in 2024, as two interceptions were negated due to penalties.
The offensive line will also need improvement as they hurt the offense, giving Jalen Milroe less time to make crucial decisions. This problem could hurt the Tide with Defenses like Georgia, Oklahoma, LSU, and Wisconsin on the 2024 schedule.
Predictions
While it is too early to tell if Alabama will return to glory in 2024, we can still make predictions based on their upcoming season.
Jam Miller and Justice Haynes combine for 1,500 yards. I can not remember the last time I saw an RB duo at Alabama this hungry, but both players look ready to kill opposing defenses in 2024. My two concerns with this prediction are injuries and the line. The line has halted the Tide Backs since 2021. If they can figure it out this year, the run game can be the focal point of offense for 2024. Injuries are always a concern, and with both players dealing with some injuries last season, staying healthy will be crucial for Alabama.
Jalen Milroe will be in New York. Nick Sheridan and his offense looked solid during the spring game, and with the Tide’s schedule and Milroe’s end to 2023, a trip to the most prestigious award ceremony is a possibility and a prediction I am confident in risking. I do not see him winning the award, but being the best player on a top team in a new offense with many new players speaks for itself.
The defense will struggle early. The departure of Nick Saban, the draft opportunities of Dallas Turner, Terrion Arnold, and many other stars, and the transfer of Caleb Downs have depleted this defense. With guys like Domani Jackson and Keon Sabb entering a new system, it will be a challenge to bring back the dominance the Tide held under Kevin Steele. The line looks to be the strong group in this defense, with Jihaad Campbell leading the linebackers. The secondary is my main concern for 2024.
Needs
The Tide needs an offensive linemen and DBs in the portal. Kadyn Proctor will end up filling the need as he plans to re-enroll at Alabama. In the secondary, Alabama could use a transfer or two. With the spring window opening, players like Jacoby Matthews, Cormani McClain, and Tacario Davis are solid targets for Alabama to improve their defense before the season.
