Check out this deep dive into the two-deep-plus, with all the Alabama football starters and key backups for the Louisville game.
Alabama football fans, this is our projection of the starters and key backups for the Louisville game. Unlike the official depth chart, there are no slash marks and no or’s used to equivocate.
To be clear, we are not privy to any last minute inside information. What we have done is carefully study the roster going back to last spring. Over the months, we have collected considerable information from experts and knowledgeable fans. We do not claim to know what is in Nick Saban’s head.
Our breakdown applies only to the Louisville game. It will be updated weekly based on game performance, up and down movement in the depth chart and future injuries and recoveries. We are not soothsayers, so we make no claim about accuracy. Hopefully, we will be correct more often than not.
Crimson Tide Defense for Louisville
The following list includes base, nickel and dime defense positions. The one exception is not adjusting for edge rushers in the dime rabbits formation.
Defensive Tackle
Starter: Quinnen Williams, Redshirt Sophomore
Quinnen has the tough job of replacing Da’Ron Payne. He is not as big as Payne. At 6-feet-4 and 288 pounds, Williams will not demand the same frequency of double-teams that Da’Ron did. Beyond those comparisons, Williams can be a top player. He has enough quickness and strength to push the pocket. Quinnen is not the drop-off from Payne that some Alabama football fans believe.
Backup: Phidarian Mathis, Redshirt Freshman
Mathis may or not be the first sub for Williams. The Crimson Tide is fortunate to have players who can play end or work in the interior. Isaiah Buggs or Raekwon Davis could move over to tackle whenever needed. Mathis is the top DT coming off the bench. He is a bit of an unknown, impressive on the scout team at the end of last season but not progressing as much during the spring. Fall camp reports indicate he will be a key member of this season’s d-line rotation.
Reserve: Tevita Musika, JUCO Transfer Junior
Musika is 6-feet-1 and 338 pounds. He has some quickness for his size but not speed. His physical strength might be needed against some run-heavy teams. Reports are he needs to improve his conditioning before he can contribute many plays in a game.