Defensive Ends
There are some credible college football experts who do not rate the Crimson Tide d-line unit as the best in the SEC. Mississippi State and Auburn have both been rated higher than Alabama football. In addition, Florida and Georgia are not far behind the Crimson Tide.
To the extent those ratings are accurate, they hinge on the Tide’s overall lack of depth and whether Quinnen Williams will be a big dropoff from Da’Ron Payne. We think the abundance of talent at defensive end can probably make up for the other perceived deficiencies.
Starter: Raekwon Davis, Junior
Raekwon was only projected as a second-team All-American. Certainly, those who made the preseason first team are great players. Still, it is hard to imagine any player with the ability to be as physically dominating as big Kwon. The double-team load Payne carried last season will fall to Davis this season. No one offensive lineman can legally block him with any consistency.
Backup: Johnny Dwight, Redshirt Senior
Johnny Dwight has never reached his potential. He did very well in spring 2017 but saw limited action last season. He has performed well this spring and fall. He should be key to the rotation this season.
Starter: Isaiah Buggs, Senior
Isaiah Buggs was very solid last season. He has stepped up to a leadership role this fall. Like most of the ends, he can play inside or out, but his most impact is expected outside.
Backup: LaBryan Ray, Sophomore
Ray will play a big role this fall. He reminds some Alabama football insiders of Jonathan Allen. Big, fast and strong, Ray has a huge upside.
Forget what the experts say, the Crimson Tide is loaded at defensive end. Even if QB pressure is not consistent rushing just four, guys, speed rushing linebackers can make up the difference.