OFFENSE DEFENSE

It will be interesting to see what Alabama’s offensive identity will be this season. With a stout offensive line, and without a proven, big-time quarterback, one would think this could turn into a run-heavy outfit. But SEC defenses that don’t respect the passing game can pretty much dominate. Jalen Milroe got a few snaps last season and didn’t embarrass himself. Tyler Buchner started three games at Notre Dame, losses to Ohio State and Marshall, and the bowl win over South Carolina. Buchner has a higher upside as a passer, but also a high turnover upside. Jermaine Burton and Ja’Corey Brooks are dynamite receivers. The offensive line should protect well and create a productive running game, everything a young, unproven QB needs. Jase McClellan and incoming freshman Justice Haynes should form a nice duo in the backfield.

Remember when the Alabama defense used to score every game? Well, last season the unit produced just 14 turnovers, seven picks and seven fumbles. Expect that to change this season. The four linebackers will continue to be the soul of the defense. Chris Braswell takes over the Jack position, hoping to kind of replace Will Anderson. He and Dallas Turner will get pressure on quarterbacks. Deontae Lawson is a sideline-to-sideline tackling machine. The Alabama coaches believe that Georgia transfer Trezmen Marshall will fit in immediately. There’s an athletic ton—literally—in the D-Line room that provides freedom for the linebackers. Kool-Aid McKinstry is the best corner in the country and Malachi Moore is one of the best safeties. Trey Amos has transferred in from Louisiana and Jaylen Cey from UAB to bolster an already talented unit.

Special Teams

Special Teams

2023 Schedule Newcomers

Justice Haynes, RB — The No. 3 running back coming out of high school, Haynes impressed in the spring and topped it off with three touchdowns in the spring game.

CJ Dippre, TE — The transfer from Maryland is regarded as a top three tight end in the SEC.

Caleb Downs, S — The No. 1 high school safety in the country had an excellent spring and will press for a starting spot.

Kayden Proctor, T — One of the largest humans on campus, Proctor, a true freshman, could be starting by October.

Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR

2022 RECORD: 7-6 (3-5)

FOUNDED: 1871

STADIUM: Reynolds Razorback (76,000)