| FTBL BR.com Defensive Impact Players

[Guest]

http://www.bleacherreport.com/articles/25805-Alabama-Football-Defensive-Impact-Player-in-2008

There's no mention of Zeke's health issue, or Hall's suspension. Imagine our LB core if we didn't have these issues. I am optimistic that we could see Prince Hall on the field come the start of the season.

 

[imported_Porter]

I'm much more optimistic about Hall returning than I am Johns being a serious contributer.

 

[Guest]

You're probably right, but I hope not.

 

[HiTide]

My impression from reading the post on RTB (a few months back when Saban suspended Hall)was that most folks felt Prince would probably end up returning to Cali. Has the general consensus on that changed?

I trust Saban will do the right thing, but IMHO losing PH will be a HUGE loss. As stated above, with Zeke's nagging injuries and Hall's issues, Rolondo seems like the only consistent standout we'll have come fall. We know we still lack depth at many spots, but at the LB position we lack "starters". I'm optimistic enough to believe Harris or some of the incoming freshman will be able to contribute, but we can't count on that. As for JJ, during the spring he was discussing the possibility of redshirting this year - which I don't see happening -but that (obviously) indicates he may not be ready to step in (as Porter eluded to).

I'm worried as hell about the LB spot. With our schedule, there's just not alot of time for OJT.

 

[imported_Porter]

My impression from reading the post on RTB (a few months back when Saban suspended Hall)was that most folks felt Prince would probably end up returning to Cali. Has the general consensus on that changed?

I trust Saban will do the right thing, but IMHO losing PH will be a HUGE loss. As stated above, with Zeke's nagging injuries and Hall's issues, Rolondo seems like the only consistent standout we'll have come fall. We know we still lack depth at many spots, but at the LB position we lack "starters". I'm optimistic enough to believe Harris or some of the incoming freshman will be able to contribute, but we can't count on that. As for JJ, during the spring he was discussing the possibility of redshirting this year - which I don't see happening -but that (obviously) indicates he may not be ready to step in (as Porter eluded to).

I'm worried as hell about the LB spot. With our schedule, there's just not alot of time for OJT.

On Hall, some thought that the suspension would lead to him quitting, and some thought he wouldn't meet the criteria that Saban set for him. At this point though, neither of those appear to be the eventual outcome.

You should be optimistic on both Harris and Hightower, as both will play a lot. It is never ideal to throw a TF into the fire that early, but these two are good enough to handle it, much like McClain did last year. Upshaw will have a great opportunity too, and like Harris and Hightower, he is good enough to make the most of it.

On Johns, regardless of needing a RS year or not, he won't get one. That option was never considered by Saban from what I understand. I suspect he'll again make an impact on special teams, and maybe get some snaps in run situations from the LB spot. Anything more would be a pleasant surprise.