The Alabama Crimson Tide will undoubtedly rank as one of the highest in the SEC for 2023 (because it’s Alabama football). However, their degree of success depends on a lot of elements that include many variables. Between the newcomers, new hires, and Saban’s legacy, the equation can get rather long. Taking all of this into account, I formed a list. Here are five things to watch for in Alabama football next season.
1. The Quarterback Situation
QB Bryce Young’s departure left a big question mark for Alabama’s quarterback position. The list of quarterbacks shows a range of potential and talent. It’s just a matter of who the starting quarterback will be. I have a hard time saying for certain who I think should fill the spot. There’s Jalen Milroe, who started one game last season, as well as Ty Simpson, who earned a 5-star ranking as a redshirt during his first year. There’s also Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner, who added more uncertainty to the mix. If I have to choose, I’m going with Buchner.
Along with everyone else, I’m excited to see what happens here. Alabama football almost never disappoints when it comes to quarterbacks.
2. A Solid Defense
Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry (1) – Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The offensive line may ask some good questions, but the defensive line is much more secure. Although the Tide did say goodbye to Will Anderson Jr., there seems to be an opportunity to develop other playmakers. Transfers Trey Amos and Jaylen Key do add bulk to the defensive group.
CB Kool-Aid McKinstry is returning this season, which is good news. Defensive coordinator, Kevin Steele, will also return to Alabama football. Watch for the already impressive defense to continue to develop.
3. Newcomer S Caleb Downs
Out of the new players to watch, I think that S Caleb Downs will be the one. I think there is a massive opportunity for him to get in ample playing time. I also predict that he will make a difference from the very start of the season. While there is a possibility that he won’t start, I think there’s a pretty good chance that he will.
Demarcco Hellams, Brian Branch, and Jordan Battle are gone, and a lot of people speculate that Downs could be a great replacement. If there’s one thing about Alabama football, it’s that when one-star leaves, another one files right into place.
4. Texas vs. Alabama
This is going to be THE game on the schedule. After last season’s nail-biter, Texas and Alabama’s matchup is highly anticipated. Texas almost defeated Alabama without their starting quarterback. Wild. Expect Saban and the Tide to come back at Texas with some serious gumption because even though it was technically a victory, it was almost scary. With that in mind, Texas is going to come back with even more of a bang than before.
I can be sure that it’ll be one of the toughest games of the season. Or we can be real and say that it will be the toughest of the season.
Texas vs. Alabama football matchup in 2022 – Tim Warner/Getty Images
5. Offensive Coordinator Tommy Rees
Alabama football needed a shift in direction for the offensive line after the 2022 season. Tommy Rees may be the missing piece to the offense’s shortcomings, as I expect him to focus on developing a strong running game. Rees has proven to be consistent and has a great energy about him. I lean towards Rees totally reconstructing the offensive line approach. Rees is likely to push ball control, which I think is a key factor in the success of the offense this season.
I’m excited about this new hire, as I totally believe that Nick Saban knows exactly what he’s doing. Rees should bring a load of knowledge that will guide the offense in the right direction.
