The University of Alabama is embarking on perhaps the most significant coaching change in college football history, with Nick Saban leaving and Karen DeBoer taking over. The seven-time national champion retired from the game, and in his place the Crimson Tide brought in one of the most successful offensive minds and program builders in the game.
He is currently trying his luck at college football's premier conference and the most successful program in the nation. How far are DeBoer's efforts to remake Alabama in his image? This weekend, the Tide returns to the football field to conclude spring practice with his annual A-Day Game. Here's what to watch for Saturday:
Alabama Football Spring Game 2024 Schedule
when: Saturday, April 13th
time: 3pm Central
tv set: ESPN Network
RELATED: Alabama Football Schedule 2024
wide receiver questions
Jermaine Burton entered the draft, and Isaiah Bonds and tight end Amari Niblack both went to Texas. DeBoer's offense needs receivers to function, but Alabama's cupboard is relatively empty compared to previous years.
Kobe Prentiss is the team's top returner, and Washington transfer Jermie Bernard is also coming in, but there's plenty of other talent to fill. True freshman Ryan Williams has a chance to make an immediate impact and prove he deserves significant snaps right away.
secondary substitute
Malachi Moore returns at safety for the Tide, and a pair of transfers — Domani Jackson from USC at corner and safety, and Keon Sabu from Michigan at corner and safety, respectively, but otherwise the back end of this defense. There is a lot of youth and lack of experience. .
The spring game gives DeBoer and the coaches a chance to test any combination of personnel to find early clues as to what this secondary will look like in Week 1.
front 7 depth
Saban built Alabama's dynasty around a stifling defense, but DeBoer's teams aren't known for their defense. So it's good that Alabama has some very promising depth back in the front seven: Tim Keenan, LT Overton, Damon Payne, James Smith, and Tim Smith, among others.
Deonte Lawson and Jihad Campbell return at linebacker, while Keanu Cote and Quandarius Robinson project as solid rushing options to build from a position group that was well-received this spring. Alabama needs to get its defense right early while DeBoer ramps up the offense.
offensive line
Alabama wants to thoroughly test his blocking ability, especially on the edge, against their promising pass rush. Kadin Proctor, who transferred to Iowa after Saban retired, is expected to return in the fall, and Parker Brailsford, who transferred to Washington, is also expected to compete for the starting spot, but will not be in the spring game due to personal reasons. Not participating.
That leaves the likes of Elijah Pritchett and Wilkin Formby with plenty of opportunities to represent the first team, while Miles McVeigh and Nakil Betland are expected to play as substitutes. Alabama has struggled at times to protect its quarterback, so finding the right combination early will be important.
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