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Alabama Football: Some inside news from a quiet offseason

By Ronald Evans

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) runs the ball for a long touchdown during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) runs the ball for a long touchdown during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Washington 24-7. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Alabama football players, Rashaan Evans and Minkah Fitzpatrick
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Rashaan Evans (32) and defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) tackle Clemson Tigers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (13) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The 2017 Defense

There are two issues in the secondary; overall depth and the learning curve for Trevon Diggs. Alabama football has tremendous talent and experience in the secondary: Anthony Averett, Ronnie Harrison, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Tony Brown and Hootie Jones.

Absent injuries these five will get the job done. The problem is Minkah is not replaceable and the best backup for an injured Averett is Fitzpatrick. Depth is a big concern. Which leads to Diggs. Insiders are confident his superior athletic skills and competitive temperament will make him a great corner. No one knows how long that will take.

Recent observations of Isaiah Buggs, Raekwon Davis and Quinnen Williams indicate the defensive line will not be a weakness in 2017. All three could become major Tide stars. Buggs has already established a reputation for his work ethic.

All Alabama football fans are confident Da’Ron Payne and Da’Shawn Hand will have big seasons. LaBryan Ray and Phidarian Mathis may provide help as freshmen. Mathis shed some unneeded weight before enrolling this summer.

The pool of linebackers is as loaded as any Alabama football team ever. Even the three freshmen later enrollees, Cowan, Benton and Allen are already impressing insiders. A couple of people have suggested Cowan will be another Reuben Foster.

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