Alabama Football: Upon further review, the ’18 Signing Class is just fine

Alabama football fans are struggling with the reality of not winning 2018 recruiting. After seven years of dominance, the Tide ebbed, but that is just fine.

Alabama football recruiting is no longer No. 1. At least, in 2018 team rankings it is not. After seven years of No. 1 recruiting classes, the Tide slipped to No. 7. There are a few reasons why. The first being no team can be No. 1 every season. That is a difficult concept for Alabama football fans. Our unrealistic expectations make it no less true.

There are other reasons. Above normal Alabama football staff changes over the last two years no doubt damaged recruiting relationships. Three former, strong Tide recruiters, now head coaches and fighting Nick for players is another reason.

Nick Saban saw the problem coming and he took action. There may be more changes for the Alabama football staff in the coming weeks. More changes or not, Saban has a younger, hungrier and we suspect smarter Alabama football staff working hard on 2019 recruiting and beyond.

Recruiting Based On Need

For the reluctant naysayers clinging to 2018 recruiting gloom, let’s review. As Saban said, 2018 was a cycle to recruit based on need. Most of those needs were met. One more interior defensive lineman was needed, as was one more inside linebacker.

Otherwise, the 2018 roster is fine. It will again be one of, if not the most talented roster in college football. Defensive backs were needed and the Tide loaded up wonderfully. More wide receivers were needed and the Tide is bringing in three who can play in 2018.

Alabama is loaded at defensive end and outside linebacker. The same is true at running back. There are plenty of capable tight ends. There will be an abundance of big, mean offensive lineman fighting for the five starting spots. A solid punter was added to replace J.K. Scott and finally what is believed to be a consistent placekicker was added.

On Wednesday afternoon, Nick Saban implied a fourth QB is on the way. He also acknowledged the Tide will look for one more big body for the d-line. A tight end or an offensive lineman might be moved to add d-line depth.

2019 Recruiting Redemption

Have faith Alabama football fans. The 2018 signing class is just fine. Also, be assured the Alabama football staff will seek ‘recruiting redemption’ with the 2019 and 2020 classes.

For those who can only find solace in hard numbers, look carefully at the top three 2018 classes. Georgia, Ohio State and Texas signed 26, 26 and 27 players. Alabama football reached the Top 10 classes (No. 7 currently) with only 19 signed players.

Next: 30 Great Crimson Tide players who were 3-Star recruits

Anyone still determined to worry about something, look at Dabo’s signing class. Clemson is No. 6 with only 17 players, including five 5-Stars. Now that is impressive.