| FTBL Bama's Impact Players for 2018

[Alabama17Tide]

Alabama’s title defense doesn’t begin until Sept. 1, but that won’t stop us from looking ahead a couple of months. The Crimson Tide will look to make its fifth straight College Football Playoff on its way to bringing home an 18th national championship to Tuscaloosa, Ala. Despite suffering some key losses to the NFL, Alabama’s roster should be well equipped to achieve both goals.
Over the next two weeks, BamaInsider.com will break down the top 40 most important players for the upcoming season. Players were rated based on their projected impact on Alabama’s success next season.
No. 40: Austin Jones, K
Yes, a backup kicker makes the list. Then again, graduate transfer Austin Jones might be playing as a little more than a backup this season. The former Temple kicker was brought on by Alabama this offseason after making 50 of 67 (74.6 percent) career field-goal attempts with the Owls.
Jones doesn’t have quite the same leg power as redshirt freshman Joseph Bulovas, who will show up later on this list. However, the graduate transfer’s accuracy might make him Alabama’s go-to guy on shorter field goals if the Crimson Tide elects to use a two-kicker system. If that’s the case, Jones might actually see more action than Bulovas given that Alabama’s high-powered offense projects to drive deep into its opponent’s territory on most possessions.
No. 39: Mac Jones, QB
Depending on how things shake up in the quarterback competition, Mac Jones could shoot up this list. Although, at the moment he’s Alabama’s third-string quarterback behind Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts.
Regardless, the redshirt freshman proved he can be a viable option, earning co-MVP honors during the A-Day game. Jones completed 23 of 35 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns with one interception and outshined Hurts on the day. However, there is a difference between putting up numbers in a scrimmage and performing when it counts.
Jones might finally get his first action this year, especially if the loser between Hurts and Tagovailoa elects to transfer. If so, Alabama hopes he will continue to demonstrate the improvement he displayed this spring.
No. 38: Brian Robinson, RB
Buried behind a loaded backfield, Brian Robinson didn’t get many opportunities during his freshman year last season. However, when the Tuscaloosa, Ala., native did get the ball, he made the most of it. Robinson finished second among Alabama backs with 6.88 yards per carry, racking up 165 yards and two scores on just 24 attempts.
While the former four-star is still competing with Damien Harris, Najee Harris and Josh Jacobs for carries, he should play more of a factor for the Crimson Tide this season. Robinson started his season off on the right foot during the A-Day game, recording 30 yards and a touchdown on seven carries while pulling in six catches for 59 yards out of the backfield.
No. 37: Chris Allen, LB
Chris Allen is another young player who made waves for Alabama this spring. After recording just six tackles in seven games during his freshman year, the hard-hitting outside linebacker figures to be a part of the Crimson Tide’s revamped pass-rush this season.
Allen was one of Alabama’s top performers this spring. Although, he will still be below Anfernee Jennings, Christian Miller and Terrell Lewis in the pecking order at outside linebacker. However, he should find his way into certain packages as the Crimson Tide looks to utilize his pass-rushing abilities. Given his size, 6-foot-4, 242 pounds, Allen will likely start the season as a direct backup to Jennings, who will serve as the Jack linebacker on early downs.
No. 36: Jaylen Waddle, WR
Jaylen Waddle is the first true freshman on the list and should be one of the more exciting players to watch. The five-foot-10, 175-pound receiver looks made for the slot position and has the ability to torment defenses with his quickness if Alabama can get him the ball in open space.
While Waddle figures to shine on offense, his biggest role this season could come on special teams. The former five-star recruit told BamaInsider.com earlier this year that Alabama coaches have informed him he will get the opportunity to compete for both punt return and kick return duties. Given Waddle’s ability to cut and juke past defenders on a dime, he could once again provide the Crimson Tide with a home-run threat like it had with Eddie Jackson and Cyrus Jones in recent years.
No. 35: Daniel Wright, DB
Following A-Day, Alabama head coach Nick Saban rattled off a list of six defensive backs he felt confident with. Players with starting experience in Trevon Diggs and Deionte Thompson were mentioned, while Xavier McKinney, Savion Smith, Shyheim Carter and Jared Mayden also made the list. Sophomore Daniel Wright did not.
Wright’s omission from Saban’s list comes as somewhat of a surprise after the former four-star safety showed signs of promise during his freshman year. Wright recorded just 10 tackles through 13 games last season, appearing primarily on special teams. It was there where the hard-hitting safety provided glimpses of how deadly he can be on the field.
Wright leveled Florida State kick returner Keith Gavin in the first quarter of last year’s season-opener and doled out a few more big blows as the year went on. While Saban said he still has to make “significant improvement,” don’t count out the young safety just yet.
No. 34: LaBryan Ray, DE
LaByran Ray saw his redshirt burned in Week 5 last season to help provide depth after Alabama suffered several injuries on defense. Instead of spending his freshman season soaking up knowledge from the bench, the former four-star spent his year setting a solid first impression.
Ray wasted no time making an impact, tallying his first career sack against Texas A&M during his second college appearance. The former No. 1 player in Alabama appeared in six games, tallying five tackles with 2.5 for a loss before ending his season by breaking his foot leading into the Mercer game.
Now fully recovered, Ray is a prime candidate for a breakout season as he projects to rotate in and out of Alabama’s defensive line along with starters Raekwon Davis, Isaiah Buggs and Quinnen Williams.
No. 33: Patrick Surtain Jr., DB
If there’s one true freshman poised to make the biggest impact this season, it’s five-star cornerback Patrick Surtain Jr. The 6-foot-2, 183-pound defender already fits the prototypical size of an Alabama defensive back and comes to Tuscaloosa, Ala., with a wealth of football knowledge thanks to his father, Patrick Surtain, a three-time NFL Pro-Bowler.
The younger Surtain has already made a name for himself, coming to Alabama as the No. 8 player overall and No. 1 cornerback in the 2018 class. However, neither his name nor the early hype will earn him automatic playing time. Recently joining Alabama for summer workouts, the young cornerback will need to grasp the playbook fast if he wants to see the field early. However, given his talent and the Crimson Tide’s need at the position, it’s certainly possible he could contribute quickly.
No. 32: Jared Mayden, DB
Needing to replace six defensive backs from last year, Alabama’s secondary is littered with question marks. Jared Mayden has the size and ability to fill each hole if called upon. The 6-foot, 196-pound junior served as a backup cornerback last season but switched to safety this spring. He could also play in the slot at either the Star or Money position on passing downs.
Mayden’s versatility is a huge asset for Alabama, and so is his experience. He tallied just four stops over seven games last season but came away with an interception on A-Day to complete a promising spring camp.
While Mayden played with the second unit during A-Day, he did spend some time working with the first unit this spring. Fall camp will provide the junior with another opportunity to earn a starting spot. However, he should provide depth to the unit regardless.
No. 31: Josh Jacobs, RB
Damien Harris is the returning 1,000-yard rusher, while Najee Harris is widely viewed as the future of Alabama’s backfield. Brian Robinson is thought of as the dark horse for increased carries. Meanwhile, Josh Jacobs hasn’t been thought of at all lately.
The junior running back did not participate in contact drills this spring while recovering from ankle surgery. That came after a disappointing sophomore year in which he was slowed by a nagging hamstring injury that limited him to 284 yards and a touchdown on 46 carries.
Despite the lack of recent production, it isn’t wise to sleep on Jacobs. The former three-star recruit proved how explosive he can be as a change-of-pace back and led all Alabama backs with 168 yards and two touchdowns on 14 receptions.
This season will be key for Jacobs. If he can avoid injury, he has the tools to emerge as one of Alabama’s biggest threats on offense. However, if he is unable to stay on the field he will most likely get passed over by the wealth of talent the Crimson Tide has in its backfield.
No. 30: Skyler DeLong, P
The kid with a name that seems tailor-made for a punter will now be in charge of replacing the name that defined the position for Alabama the past four years. This season Skyler Delong will step into the paradox of being thrust into the spotlight as a freshman while still finding himself in the shadow of Alabama’s all-time leading punter JK Scott.
No one is expecting DeLong to completely replace the three-time All-American right away. Although, it’s worth noting Scott finished runner-up for the Ray Guy Award his first year on campus. Comparisons like that will be tough to shake.
So far, DeLong is off to a promising start. The 6-foot-3, 180-pound punter pinned six of his 10 punts on A-Day inside the 20-yard line, solidifying his starting spot heading into fall camp. Those added reps this spring should also help buffer some of the pressure as he transitions to the college level.
No. 29: Tyrell Shavers, WR
At some point, it isn’t fair anymore. Alabama's wealth of talent at the wide receiver position is the envy of every SEC team. Not only does the Crimson Tide return three playmaking sophomores in Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III and DeVonta Smith, it’s now adding a 6-foot-6 receiver with sub-4.4 speed to the mix.
Tyrell Shavers enrolled early last season but redshirted after he failed to break into a stacked receiving corps. The towering receiver missed most of this spring after injuring a ligament in his big toe but should be finally ready to make his Alabama debut this fall. Given his rare mix of height and speed, Shavers provides the Crimson Tide with both a deep-ball threat and a target in the red zone.
No. 28: Irv Smith Jr., TE
If Alabama’s passing attack finally turns the corner this season, opposing defenses will have more than just receivers to worry about. Irv Smith Jr. emerged as the Crimson Tide’s best pass-catching option at tight end last season, leading the unit with 14 receptions for 128 yards and three touchdowns.
The former basketball player’s athleticism allows for him to be a mismatch against linebackers, while his 6-foot-4, 244-pound frame presents a challenge for smaller defensive backs. Alabama did a nice job of spreading the ball around during its second-half comeback against Georgia in the national championship game. With so many viable targets on the Crimson Tide’s offense, Smith could often find himself in favorable matchups this season.
No. 27: Alex Leatherwood, OL
Everyone remembers the two freshmen who put together Alabama’s game-winning 41-yard touchdown in overtime against Georgia in the national championship game. Although, while quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and receiver DeVonta Smith get all the credit, the play wouldn’t have happened if freshman left tackle Alex Leatherwood didn’t do his job.
Leatherwood filled in admirably for Jonah Williams after the starting left tackle went down with an injury in the second half. Leatherwood’s performance helped provide momentum for a successful spring that now has the former five-star in the mix for a starting spot next season.
No. 26: Shyheim Carter, DB
Leatherwood wasn’t the only player to step in during the national championship game. Shyheim Carter filled in for Tony Brown at the Star position to help slow down Georgia’s passing attack in the second half. The 6-foot, 195-pound junior might now be taking over that role for good.
Alabama will have to replace Brown along with five other key defensive backs in Minkah Fitzpatrick, Ronnie Harrison, Anthony Averett, Levi Wallace and Hootie Jones. Given his size and physicality, Carter is capable of going up against bigger receivers across the middle. He could also move outside to one of the cornerback spots.
“Shyheim has done a really good job,” Alabama head coach Nick Saban said this spring. “He’s taking a leadership role and really trying to affect the other players out there making calls. He has a good understanding of the defense.”

 

[Alabama17Tide]

No. 25: Xavier McKinney, S
Xavier McKinney started this season by changing his jersey to No. 15, the number previously worn by starting safety Ronnie Harrison. By the looks of it, McKinney could be in line to take Harrison's role on the field as well.
After spending the majority of his freshman season on special teams, McKinney worked at safety with Alabama’s first-team defense this spring. The 6-foot-1, 197-pound safety is not quite as big as Harrison (6-foot-3, 214-pounds) but still plays with the same hard-hitting style. Earlier this year, a video surfaced of McKinney completing a 305-pound power clean.
McKinney will still need to fend off fellow sophomore Daniel Wright as well as junior Jared Mayden this fall for the starting spot beside Deionte Thompson. However, at this point, he's leading the race.
No. 24: Matt Womack, OL
Matt Womack might be higher up on this list if his spot on Alabama’s starting offensive line was more concrete. However, the right tackle suffered a broken foot which kept him out of the entirety of spring camp, opening the door for others to pick up valuable first-team reps at the position.
With Womack sidelined, five-star freshman Alex Leatherwood took his spot at right tackle during the A-Day game. Those two could end up forming one of the most heated position battles this fall when Womack returns to full strength. The redshirt junior will have the advantage in terms of experience after starting all 14 games. Womack’s versatility will also help him see the field as he is capable of playing either the guard or tackle position.
If Womack reclaims his starting spot at right tackle, he could have the vital job of protecting left-handed quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s blind side. That would certainly increase his importance as well.
No. 23: Saivion Smith, DB
Saivion Smith is new to Alabama, but he’s familiar with the SEC. The JUCO transfer began his career with LSU where he played in 10 games while tallying two pass breakups during his freshman season. That’s not an extensive amount of experience by any means, but it does exceed the reps of several of the Crimson Tide’s other options in the secondary.
Following A-Day, Alabama head coach Nick Saban said Smith made a lot of progress but stated he still thinks the cornerback is “not quite sure about what he’s doing all the time.” Although, Smith should become more comfortable once he gets more reps in Saban’s system during the summer and fall.
Along with his experience, Smith also brings versatility at the position. While he spent the entirety of Alabama’s spring camp at cornerback, the 6-foot-1, 198-pound defensive back has the size to line up at Star or even safety.
No. 22: Lester Cotton, OL
After starting 18 games the past two seasons, Lester Cotton looks poised to once again find a spot along Alabama’s offensive line. The Tuscaloosa, Ala., native started 13 games at right guard last season but also has experience on the left side, where he spent the majority of the spring.
While that experience should give Cotton a leg up, he’ll still need to perform well this fall to lock down a starting role. He was one of several offensive linemen to struggle at times during the A-Day game as Alabama’s defensive line combined for 13 sacks.
Cotton could battle with sophomores Jedrick Wills and Alex Leatherwood for a starting spot. Entering his senior season, he will also be relied upon to step into more of a leadership role and could serve as a mentor for the two underclassmen as well.
No. 21: Trevon Diggs, DB
Trevon Diggs returns to Alabama’s defense a year wiser and now figures to be more apt to succeed at the cornerback position. The wide receiver turned cornerback experienced an up-and-down year while making his switch to the defensive side of the ball. After starting the season-opener against Florida State, Diggs was replaced at halftime by Levi Wallace, who started the next 13 games in his place.
Diggs used the season to learn behind Alabama’s loaded secondary and was often seen running routes with Minkah Fitzpatrick during pre-game workouts.
“I kind of looked at it as if, ‘Well, I can learn something from him. He’s going to be a first-round draft pick, so why not?’” Diggs said this spring.
As one of two returning starters in the secondary, Diggs may now be the one providing advice to a group of inexperienced defensive backs. Alabama might also rely on his experience on special teams. Last season, Diggs was the Crimson Tide’s most dependable punt returner, averaging 8.56 yards on 18 returns.
No. 20: Joseph Bulovas, K
If A-Day is any indication, Alabama’s kicking woes might soon become a thing of the past. Much to the delight of the anxious fans inside of Bryant-Denny Stadium, redshirt freshman Joseph Bulovas earned co-MVP honors during the scrimmage, converting on 5 of 7 field-goal attempts with a long of 49 yards.
Bulovas came to Alabama last fall rated as the No. 1 kicker in the 2017 class but failed to live up to the hype. After struggling to maintain consistency during fall camp he was beaten out by walk-on Andy Pappanastos resulting in a redshirt season. Alabama’s hoping the year off helped Bulovas to get his bearings as he looks to take over the kicking duties this year.
If Bulovas’ struggles resurface, Alabama has some insurance in graduate transfer Austin Jones. The Crimson Tide could elect to use a two-kicker system as Jones doesn’t have the same leg as Bulovas but has been accurate from short range throughout his career. Either way, Bulovas’ big leg will also be relied on for kickoffs.
No. 19: Jedrick Wills, OL
The highlight of Jedrick Wills’ promising freshman season came when he made his first-career start, filling in at right tackle against Ole Miss. This season, the former five-star should be seeing the field a bit more often.
Wills, who was rated as the No. 25 player in the 2017 class, might have found his way into Alabama’s starting unit earlier had he enrolled in the spring instead of the fall last year. He started at right tackle this spring before moving to right guard and can play either position for the Crimson Tide moving forward. Given his talent and versatility, there’s a good chance Wills will be included in Alabama’s starting five to begin the season.
No. 18: Devonta Smith, WR
Moments before DeVonta Smith wrote his name into Alabama lore he turned to Tua Tagovailoa, delivering what would become a crucial message to his quarterback.
“Trust me,” the receiver said, followed by a nod from Tagovailoa.
The next play, Tagovailoa dropped back and hurled a 41-yard strike to a wide-open Smith on the left sideline giving Alabama the game-winning touchdown against Georgia in overtime to secure the Crimson Tide’s 17th national title.
Whoever wins Alabama’s quarterback battle this season better get used to trusting Smith as the sophomore steps into a starting role following the departures of Calvin Ridley, Robert Foster and Cam Sims.
While Smith tallied just seven receptions for 156 yards and three touchdowns as a freshman, he proved to be a reliable option in clutch situations. He also provided the game-winning 26-yard touchdown against Mississippi State with 25 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.
No. 17: Henry Ruggs III, WR
Henry Ruggs III was a part of one of the strangest anomalies of last season. Despite not seeing many passes thrown his way, the play-making receiver led the team in touchdown receptions, including one on each of his first five catches.
Ruggs earned Freshman All-SEC honors with 12 catches for 229 yards and six touchdowns, including one in the national championship game against Georgia. Those numbers should only increase as he steps into a starting role on an Alabama offense looking to expand on its passing attack from recent years.
No. 16: Jerry Jeudy, WR
It wasn’t what he originally planned, but Jerry Jeudy left last season with the goal he set out to achieve. The five-star receiver didn’t come close to any of the records several projected him to break heading into his freshman year but ended his season with the ultimate prize: a national championship.
“It wasn’t what I expected, but it’s just part of the process,” Jeudy said during the College Football Playoff. “I thought I’d get the ball more than what I do now. But hey, we’re winning, and that’s all that matters.”
Jeudy was Alabama’s second-leading receiver with 14 receptions for 264 yards and two touchdowns but had less than a fifth of the catches of leading receiver Calvin Ridley. This season, Jeudy should have more of an active role as he looks to lead the Crimson Tide to a second straight title.
No. 15: Ross Pierschbacher, OL
Ross Pierschbacher has been here before. Alabama experimented with switching the offensive lineman from guard to center heading into his sophomore season in 2016. However, the snapping duties were ultimately passed on to Bradley Bozeman, who manned the position the past two years.
With Bozeman now in the NFL, Alabama will once again turn to Pierschbacher to lock down the middle of its offensive line. Now a senior, the three-year starting guard appears more ready for the responsibility.
“I think I’ve learned a lot, just experience-wise and really kind of understanding all the positions even more and just the system that we go through,” Pierschbacher said earlier this year. “Two years it was kind of fresh and new, I was trying to learn on the fly. Now just having that experience going into it, knowing a little bit more, and just being around the same kind of guys, playing next to Jonah and Bradley last year and stuff like that has helped.”
Pierschbacher’s role recently became more important as backup center transferred from the program after graduating from Alabama last month.
No. 14: Najee Harris, RB
Najee Harris needed just one quarter to help lead Alabama to its 17th national title and set the stage for what appears to be a breakout sophomore season. The five-star back didn’t touch the ball until the fourth quarter of Alabama’s national championship victory over Georgia but led the Crimson Tide with 64 yards on six carries.
Harris, the No. 1 rated player in the 2017 class, had to fight for carries in a loaded backfield and finished his freshman year with 370 yards and three touchdowns on 61 attempts. While Alabama still has plenty of talented options at running back, the 6-foot-2, 228-pound back is in position to see his workload rise dramatically this season.
Given Harris’ size and athletic ability, he looks to be the perfect replacement for Bo Scarbrough, who departed for the NFL following his junior season. Although, any increased playing time will still have to be earned as Harris shares a backfield that also includes Damien Harris, Josh Jacobs and Brian Robinson.
No. 13: Jalen Hurts, QB
Jalen Hurts was ranked No. 1 on BamaInsider.com's Top 40 for 2017 and would certainly vault up the list this year if he retains his starting status this season. However, at the moment it is unclear whether or not he will do so.
After serving as Alabama’s starting quarterback the past two seasons, Hurts now finds himself in a battle with Tua Tagovailoa for the starting role this fall. Hurts is 26-2 as a starter and is coming off a season in which he passed for 17 touchdowns with just one interception while adding 855 yards and eight more scores on the ground.
However, he failed to move the ball through the air late in the season, combining for just 253 yards and three touchdowns over his final three games. Those struggles were highlighted during the national championship game where he completed 3 of 8 passes for 21 yards before being replaced at the half by Tua Tagovailoa, who went on to lead Alabama to a comeback victory.
The two quarterbacks were supposed to compete for the starting job this spring, but Tagovailoa was limited after breaking a bone in his throwing hand. Meanwhile, Hurts experienced an up-and-down camp, ending with a disappointing A-Day performance that saw him complete 19 of 37 passes for 195 yards and an interception while failing to lead his team to the end zone.
Alabama head coach Nick Saban maintained last week that both quarterbacks will be given an opportunity to compete for the starting job in the fall. Hurts’ father, Averion Hurts, implied his son would transfer if he didn’t win the job. There is also a chance Alabama uses a two-quarterback system, which would make both Hurts and Tagovailoa a vital part of the Crimson Tide's plans this season.
No. 12: Dylan Moses, LB
Same number, same result. Maybe there’s something about linebackers who wear the No. 32 at Alabama. Former Butkus Award winner C.J. Mosley previously donned the jersey before passing it on to Rashaan Evans, who wore it the past four years. Now, Dylan Moses looks to be the next in line to carry on the tradition.
If A-Day is any indication, the trend of success is set to continue. In his first appearance in the No. 32 jersey, Moses led all Alabama players with 10 tackles in the final scrimmage. Although to be fair, Moses had been playing at that level before he changed jersey numbers.
The former five-star was on the verge of breaking out late during his freshman season last year before suffering a season-ending foot injury heading into the College Football Playoffs. Prior to the injury, Evans tallied 11 tackles, including four for a loss, with an interception in his first-career start against Mercer. He followed that up with a game-high 10 stops against Auburn the next week. Now back to 100 percent, he’ll look to continue that production this season as he steps into a starting role.
No. 11: Isaiah Buggs, DL
Isaiah Buggs is entering his second season with Alabama, although it seems like he’s been around for much longer. The JUCO transfer arrived in time to help Alabama prepare for its national championship game against Clemson in 2017 and was a driving force in the Crimson Tide’s title run this past season.
Buggs started in all but one of Alabama’s games last season, recording 51 tackles, 4.5 for loss, with 1.5 sacks and seven quarterback hurries. Returning for his senior year, the former five-star is now looking to take on a leadership role on the Crimson Tide’s young defense.
“I try to bring the energy on the practice field every day,” Buggs said earlier this year. “I try to be a coachable player and be a player who sticks out, that Saban is like 'Wow, we need this energy every day to get the team through practice.’”

 

[Alabama17Tide]

No. 10: Terrell Lewis, LB
The last time we saw Terrell Lewis during a competitive game, the Alabama linebacker was standing above Georgia quarterback Jake Fromm after bringing him down for a crucial sack in overtime of the national championship game. The play was one of just a few highlights the talented pass-rusher made during a season that saw him miss 10 games after tearing a ligament in his elbow during the season-opener against Florida State.
Lewis’ appearance in the national championship game came in his first career start as he tallied a career-high seven tackles against the Bulldogs. Now that he’s fully healthy, the 6-foot-5, 256-pound outside linebacker should play a vital role in revamping Alabama’s pass rush. Lewis will most likely sub in at Jack linebacker on passing downs when Alabama can take advantage of his ability to get to the quarterback.
No. 9: Anfernee Jennings, LB
Anfernee Jennings' season-ending knee injury against Clemson in the Sugar Bowl came after his most impressive performance to date. Jennings tallied a career-high five tackles, three for a loss, with one sack against Clemson before being carried off the field. Despite missing three games last season he still finished with 41 tackles, six for a loss, with a sack and a pair of forced fumbles.
This season, Alabama will look to see what the 6-foot-3, 262-pound linebacker can do when he’s completely healthy. Jennings should start as Alabama’s Jack linebacker, helping to set the edge on early downs. If he is able to stay on the field, some believe he could develop into a first-round talent in next year’s NFL Draft.
No. 8: Christian Miller, LB
Christian Miller has added 35 pounds since joining Alabama. This season, the 6-foot-4, 244-pound outside linebacker is looking forward to finally putting that weight to good use.
Miller suffered what appeared to be a season-ending injury during last season’s opener against Florida State when he tore his bicep. However, the resilient linebacker returned in time to play an instrumental part in Alabama’s playoff run. Miller featured in both of Alabama’s playoff games, tallying a sack against Georgia in the national championship game.
This season he figures to serve as Alabama’s starting Sam linebacker and should also provide a veteran presence off the field.
“I want to step up and lead on and off the field,” he said earlier this year. “I just want to embrace this last year and just do everything I can to make my presence known just with the guys, with the coaches, with the organization. Just really knowing it’s my last, I just want to get as much out of it as I can.”
No. 7: Quinnen Williams, DL
The hole in the middle of Alabama’s defensive line doesn’t seem as ominous as it did heading into the offseason. Alabama will be without starting nose tackle Da’Ron Payne as well as his backup Joshua Frazier. However, the Crimson Tide might have found an answer to its problems in Quinnen Williams.
Following Williams’ successful redshirt season, Alabama experimented by moving the defensive end inside to nose tackle this spring. Despite being 19 pounds lighter than Payne, Williams held his own at the position, giving the Crimson Tide reason for optimism. Williams, 6-foot-4, 289 pounds, played in all 14 games last season tallying 20 stops and 6.5 tackles for a loss, with two sacks and three quarterback hurries. If he can translate that success to his new position, it will answer one of the biggest question marks Alabama has on defense heading into the year.
No. 6: Mack Wilson, LB
Mack Wilson is embracing his new role with a new mentality. The camera-loving linebacker announced last month that he is signing off of social media until the beginning of the season.
"Bout that time of year again,” Wilson posted on his Twitter account, accompanied with a hype video of his highlights. “Time to lock in and be great. This the year to make it known who you really are 3o. See y’all in September.”
The next few months will be crucial for Wilson as he prepares to step into a starting position at inside linebacker. After serving primarily as a reserve last season, Wilson earned his first two career starts during Alabama’s run in the College Football Playoff. He didn’t disappoint either, combining for 18 tackles, two for a loss, and an interception which he returned 18 yards for a touchdown.
Wilson will most likely start alongside Dylan Moses at inside linebacker, following the departure of starters Rashaan Evans and Shaun Dion Hamilton. Alabama might also be without backup linebacker Keith Holcombe, who could elect to focus on his baseball career, leaving the Crimson Tide thin in terms of depth at the position. That will make Wilson’s job that much more important.
https://alabama.rivals.com/news/bamainsider-top-40-for-2018

 

[Tidestalker]

Q. Williams

Alabama experimented by moving the defensive end inside to nose tackle this spring. Despite being 19 pounds lighter than Payne, Williams held his own at the position, giving the Crimson Tide reason for optimism. Williams, 6-foot-4, 289 pounds, played in all 14 games last season tallying 20 stops and 6.5 tackles for a loss, with two sacks and three quarterback hurries.

I'm feelin' this. Stud in the making

 

[Alabama17Tide]

Damien Harris comes in at No. 5
Tsoukalas • BamaInsider.com

Photo | Getty Images
Alabama has an embarrassment of riches at running back with at least four players who could start at most schools. So why is Damien Harris among the Crimson Tide’s five most important players for the upcoming season?
Dependability.
Harris returns for his senior year with a chance to become the first Alabama back to rush for 1,000 yards or more in three straight seasons. Depending on how many carries he gets, he even has an outside chance of gaining the 1,395 rushing yards needed to pass Derrick Henry’s school record of 3,591.
Chances are, Harris will fall short of that mark due to sharing the ball with Alabama’s other backs. But that doesn’t affect his value to the Crimson Tide. Last season, Harris showed he didn’t need many carries to make an impact, finishing No. 12 in the nation with 7.41 yards per touch.
Although, that’s not even the star back’s best stat.
Harris did not put the ball on the ground once in any of his 135 carries last season. In fact, in his two years as a starter, he has fumbled just twice over 311 carries with Alabama scooping up both mistakes. Those are the type of numbers that will keep a smile on head coach Nick Saban’s face and the senior back on the field during crucial downs.
The other thing Harris brings is leadership. With Alabama potentially breaking in a new quarterback and replacing all three of its starting receivers, he could become the voice of the offense early on. None of the Crimson Tide’s other backs have the veteran poise necessary to take on such a vital task, making Harris essential as Alabama breaks in several young players into its attack.
"I think one thing I need to improve on as far as being a leader for this team is how I affect other people,” Harris said during spring camp. “I've always been a lead by example kind of guy. I'm not super vocal, but there comes a point in time where you have to do whatever is best for the team, and do what you can do to mostly impact the rest of the guys on this team in a positive way. Whatever that has to be. If that's me becoming more vocal or continuing to lead by example, or whatever the case may be. I'm looking to do that to enhance my leadership role."

 

[TerryP]

Harris did not put the ball on the ground once in any of his 135 carries last season. In fact, in his two years as a starter, he has fumbled just twice over 311 carries with Alabama scooping up both mistakes. Those are the type of numbers that will keep a smile on head coach Nick Saban’s face and the senior back on the field during crucial downs.

 

[Alabama17Tide]

BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Jonah Williams is No. 4
Tony Tsoukalas • BamaInsider.com

Photo | Getty Images
A player known for obsessing over the little things will play one of the biggest roles in Alabama’s success this season. Jonah Williams might not be the Crimson Tide’s most talked about player, but his understated status is by design.
The starting left tackle pours over countless hours of film, correcting every detail of his game in order to make sure the only things noticeable on the field are Alabama’s skill players running through open holes.
“I get motivated by watching the film the night before, or after that practice, because like I said, I’m my harshest critic,” Williams said earlier this spring. “I might have a great play, but I’m like, ‘Man, my left hand was outside. I need to get that inside.’ So I’ll get excited the next day about how on this play, I’m going to get both my hands inside. And it’s really minute, just little details that I delve into.
"But for me, that keeps me motivated because there are so many small things to get better at. I don’t play because of anger against other teams, I play because I want to be the best I can be.”
That attention to detail allowed Williams to make an effortless switch to left tackle during his sophomore season after beginning his career on the right side. Williams started all 14 games at left tackle, earning second-team All-America honors from the AFCA and third-team honors from the Associated Press. Heading into his junior season, the 6-foot-5, 301-pound lineman said he put on 12-15 pounds this spring as he looks to become “ a little more physical in pass protection.”
The need for better pass protection was highlighted this spring as Alabama gave up a combined 13 sacks during A-Day. Excitement toward Alabama’s new high-flying offense will be for naught if quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts are not allotted the time to find Alabama’s many playmakers.
Most of Alabama’s struggles in protection came as the offensive line was still in the process of gelling together as a unit. While the Crimson Tide returns four of its five starting linemen, it will still need to replace two-year starter Bradley Bozeman at center, who provided stability on and off the field.
This season, Williams will take over that leadership role in the unit. Given his meticulous personality, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he followed in Bozeman’s footsteps and ended the season as a permanent team captain as well.

BamaInsider.com - BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Jonah Williams is No. 4

 

[TerryP]

BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Jonah Williams is No. 4

I caught this in an article a few days ago -- NFL scout lauds Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Jonah Williams as top-five talent

In the eyes of one NFL scout, no draft-eligible player has a higher pro ceiling than offensive lineman Jonah Williams.​

​

“He's everything we want in a tackle,” an NFL scout told Bleacher Report. “He's smart, athletic, tough and experienced. I don't know what the question marks are."​

​

I've found this prognostication entertaining from the day I read it the first time. And I"m still chuckling a bit...

Nine – Alex Leatherwood will rate out as the top offensive lineman this year in fewest sacks allowed. He was a beast in the second half of the national championship game and the light that coaches were wanting to see was finally flipped on for the hulking lineman. There’s no turning back now. While getting all the headlines in the past, Alabama’s left tackle Jonah Williams has been found lacking in my opinion when I rate him out and has had too many plays where he was beaten.

ICYMI: News - Ten Random Predictions for the 2018 Alabama Football Team -

 

[Alabama17Tide]

BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Deionte Thompson is No. 3
Tony Tsoukalas • BamaInsider.com

Photo | Getty Images
With just two career starts, Deionte Thompson returns as the most experienced member of Alabama’s secondary.
The redshirt junior started both of Alabama’s playoff games last season, filling in for injured safety Hootie Jones. Thompson showed plenty of promise after being thrust onto the big stage, recording a combined seven tackles and one pass breakup over the two games. But is that brief experience enough to make him “THE guy” in this years’ secondary?
Alabama certainly hopes so.
Thompson is the only returning defensive back from last season’s dime unit, as the Crimson Tide will be without Minkah Fitzpatrick, Ronnie Harrison, Anthony Averett, Levi Wallace, Tony Brown and Jones. The hardest to replace of that bunch will be Fitzpatrick, who became just the third player in NCAA history to win both the Bednarik and Thorpe awards.
While nobody expects Thompson to completely match Fitzpatrick’s versatility and production on the field, he will be counted on to take the All-American’s duties as the main signal caller in the secondary. This spring, Thompson said he was focused on improving his communication skills while becoming a better vocal leader.
“That’s going to be something that’s going to carry the guys in the back throughout the season,” he said. “So that’s something that I need to work on.”
Thompson said he learned a lot from playing behind Fitzpatrick and Harrison the past two seasons. He still talks with his former teammates who have continued to pass down words of wisdom.
"They're telling me that I have to be in the film room a lot,” Thompson said. “I have to meet with my coaches and really stay in my playbook to understand the defense and get a feel for what's going on.”
Thompson appeared in all 14 games last season, tallying 25 tackles, one for a loss, with a pass breakup and an interception which he returned 21 yards. The 6-foot-2, 194-pound safety started on the first-team defense during A-Day and helped lead a secondary that frustrated Jalen Hurts, limiting the first-team offense to 195 yards on 19 of 37 passing.
Thompson received more help in the secondary as Alabama brought in three highly-rated freshmen defensive backs over the summer. Despite the added talent, the Crimson Tide will still rely on Thompson to carry the unit early in the season as it breaks in its young defense.

BamaInsider.com - BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Deionte Thompson is No. 3

 

[Alabama17Tide]

BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Raekwon Davis earns runner-up spot
Tony Tsoukalas • BamaInsider.com

Photo | Getty Images
At 6-foot-7, Raekwon Davis towers over most of his teammates. His role this season figures to be just as large. The mammoth defensive end was Alabama’s biggest pass-rushing threat last year and should once again lead the front seven’s pursuit of opposing quarterbacks.
Davis earned first-team All-SEC honors last season, leading Alabama with 8.5 sacks while finishing second on the team with 10 tackles for a loss and third with 69 total stops. He continued that production this spring as he terrorized the offensive line, capping his performance off with eight tackles and two sacks on A-Day.
“There's nothing you can really do,” offensive lineman Ross Pierschbacher said this spring. “It's like, if he gets his hands on you, you're done. So as an offensive lineman, you've got to game plan around that and try to get your hands on him quicker than him and try to beat him to the punch.”
As for ball carriers who go up against the 308-pound Goliath, running back Damien Harris’ best advice is to run away.
“Try to avoid him if you can,” Harris said when asked the best way to attack Davis this spring. “Hopefully somebody will block him.”
Harris later smiled and said he’s glad to have Davis on his side when the games actually count. That was especially true during the Crimson Tide’s playoff run as Davis combined for 10 tackles, two for a loss, and a sack while also coming with a crucial interception in the national championship game against Georgia.
If there’s one knock in the defensive lineman’s game it's his inconsistency. Earlier this spring, Nick Saban challenged Davis to bring the same proper technique and mental intensity every play in order to live up to his potential at the position. Davis seemed to take that to heart this spring.
"It just makes me want to keep getting better,” Davis said. “Consistency, that's the biggest thing around here. It's just part of playing ball, just being consistent and just keep going hard play after play. But yeah, I think when [Saban] says that, it just makes me think that I want to just get better, get better every day.”
Saban also wouldn’t mind seeing Davis step into a leadership position on the defensive line. Alabama lost a two-year starter in Da’Ron Payne at nose tackle and will lean on Davis and senior defensive end Isaiah Buggs to lead the unit.
“He’s continuing to get better day in and day out and I think he’s becoming one of the leaders of the defense, so his role is definitely going to increase this year,” Harris said of Davis. “So, I’m looking forward to seeing the way he’ll play this year.”

BamaInsider.com - BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Raekwon Davis earns runner-up spot

 

[Tidestalker]

R. Davis is a crazy story.... All the way back to his recruitment... Wasn't going to qualify, then did qualify, or did he... Yes he did. Thank goodness it worked out. I remember he got a few snaps early in his career and was so damn big he looked out of place. Over the past couple years he's got in terrific shape though... Last season he was a straight beast. Now looking at a first round paycheck. Love the progression... RTR

 

[TUSKtimes]

R. Davis is a crazy story.... All the way back to his recruitment... Wasn't going to qualify, then did qualify, or did he... Yes he did. Thank goodness it worked out. I remember he got a few snaps early in his career and was so damn big he looked out of place. Over the past couple years he's got in terrific shape though... Last season he was a straight beast. Now looking at a first round paycheck. Love the progression... RTR

And one of those snaps as a freshman was against Miss State. He bull rushed his man and put the whammy on the QB. There was no hiding this youngun.

 

[TerryP]

R. Davis is a crazy story.... All the way back to his recruitment... Wasn't going to qualify, then did qualify, or did he... Yes he did. Thank goodness it worked out. I remember he got a few snaps early in his career and was so damn big he looked out of place. Over the past couple years he's got in terrific shape though... Last season he was a straight beast. Now looking at a first round paycheck. Love the progression... RTR

And one of those snaps as a freshman was against Miss State. He bull rushed his man and put the whammy on the QB. There was no hiding this youngun.

Which brings this to mind...

I'm still lost on why some want to move him inside where he's taking double teams versus leaving him on the end where he's rushing the passer.

 

[Max]

Well, no doubt about this now. #1 is Tua. Has to be.

 

[NickelDoubleDog]

R. Davis is a crazy story.... All the way back to his recruitment... Wasn't going to qualify, then did qualify, or did he... Yes he did. Thank goodness it worked out. I remember he got a few snaps early in his career and was so damn big he looked out of place. Over the past couple years he's got in terrific shape though... Last season he was a straight beast. Now looking at a first round paycheck. Love the progression... RTR

And one of those snaps as a freshman was against Miss State. He bull rushed his man and put the whammy on the QB. There was no hiding this youngun.

Which brings this to mind...

I'm still lost on why some want to move him inside where he's taking double teams versus leaving him on the end where he's rushing the passer.

It's not really one or the other for me. 75% of the snaps he'll take will be from a 4 man DL, and he'll be in a 3 tech more often than not, and probably a 1 tech most of the other. He'll still get doubled in these fronts as he's rushing the passer but that will free up Buggs and Williams and Ray and the edge rushers.

In the Base D, yes he's got to be a DE in the 3 man front.

 

[TerryP]

Buggs and Williams and Ray and the edge rushers.

He's better than all three from the end in my opinion.

 

[Tidestalker]

R. Davis is a crazy story.... All the way back to his recruitment... Wasn't going to qualify, then did qualify, or did he... Yes he did. Thank goodness it worked out. I remember he got a few snaps early in his career and was so damn big he looked out of place. Over the past couple years he's got in terrific shape though... Last season he was a straight beast. Now looking at a first round paycheck. Love the progression... RTR

And one of those snaps as a freshman was against Miss State. He bull rushed his man and put the whammy on the QB. There was no hiding this youngun.

Which brings this to mind...

I'm still lost on why some want to move him inside where he's taking double teams versus leaving him on the end where he's rushing the passer.

Very simple... in 2018... Even in the 3 man front:

3 pass rushers > 2 pass rushers. Aside from LSU and Auburn (some of the time), who's going to line up and run at Alabama? Plus, Davis plenty big and strong enough to hold his own in that format. And I'd even argue now that Tua and the offense will score points early, even those teams will be less likely to do so.

If it's Q. Williams at nose, then moot point. He's got a chance to be disruptive as well.

But as Nickle noted, RD mostly playing inside in the 4-3 anywhoo

 

[TerryP]

But as Nickle noted, RD mostly playing inside in the 4-3 anywhoo

He's right on the 3 technique but he's still playing an end with a linebacker up. On that play he ends up cutting inside. He's not taking the double team--Hand catches it from the C and RG.

 

[Alabama17Tide]

Well, no doubt about this now. #1 is Tua. Has to be.

You called it @12gage

BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Tua Tagovailoa is Tide's most important player
Tony Tsoukalas • BamaInsider.com

Photo | Getty Images
For the second straight year, a quarterback tops the list. Tua Tagovailoa is still battling last year’s No. 1, Jalen Hurts, for the starting quarterback role heading into the season. So why does the sophomore get the nod on our list?
Potential.

The truth is, Tagovailoa is still somewhat of an unknown. He was the hero of the national championship game, coming on in the second half to bring Alabama back from a two-score deficit by completing 14 of 24 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning 41-yard strike to DeVonta Smith in overtime. However, that is his only meaningful appearance to date.

Tagovailoa appeared in nine games as a freshman, mostly coming in during mop-up duty. He completed 63.6 percent of his passes for 636 yards with 11 touchdowns with just two interceptions. Those numbers are great by any standard, but what vaults the young quarterback to No. 1 is the style in which he played when he entered the game.

Against Georgia, Tagovailoa didn’t just spark a comeback against one of the nation’s best defenses, he did so with the command that Alabama’s offense had been craving all season. He completed passes to nine different receivers, showing an ability to read defenses well beyond his years. The performance was a stark contrast to Alabama’s offense late in the season which relied too heavily on Calvin Ridley, who ended the season with more than five times as many receptions than any of Alabama’s other receivers.

If Tagovailoa does earn the starting job, he will inevitably experience a few growing pains. His interception in the national championship came after he missed a signal. His sack in overtime nearly cost Alabama the game. Those types of inexperienced mistakes are sure to ignite a few bouts of passion and frustration from head coach Nick Saban. However, the payoff appears to be well worth the risk.

Alabama returns what could be its best offense under Saban. The Crimson Tide has a backfield that rivals any in the nation and a bevy of talent at both receiver and tight end. However, unless Alabama finds a way to distribute the ball to its many playmakers, its high-flying offense will continue to remain idle at times. Tagovailoa’s ability to unlock Alabama’s potential should make him the cornerstone of the offense and the Crimson Tide’s most dangerous weapon in its pursuit of an 18th national championship.

BamaInsider.com - BamaInsider Top 40 for 2018: Tua Tagovailoa is Tide's most important player