Alabama Football: When a work-in-progess is scary good

After beating TAMU by more than three TDs, Nick Saban asked the media to write about the Alabama football flaws. The Tide has flaws but is also scary good.

Going into last spring, Alabama football coach Nick Saban said his 2018 team, particularly his defense, would be a work-in-progress. He has used the same term at least once per week since.

After easily handling a good, though not great, TAMU team 45-23, Saban turned to a similar theme. He asked for the media to write about what his team “is not doing well.”

Nick Saban is a perfectionist. He knows his 2018 team has weaknesses. He believes the Tide’s new explosive offense may cloud perceptions, making his team vulnerable later in the season.

There will be no vulnerability in the next two games. Louisiana-Lafayette and Arkansas will be rolled over with ease. Can Missouri, LSU, Mississippi State or Auburn challenge this Tide team? Saban has no interest in such a question. He has tougher tests in mind. This Crimson Tide team reaching its championship potential is all that matters to Nick.

National pundits marvel over the Tide’s offensive weapons. After the easy win over the Aggies, Ross Dellenger for si.com gave this assessment of the Alabama Crimson Tide.

"Nick Saban has a team that can outscore you, whoever you are. Run and hide, college football. Run and hide."

Dellenger’s words may or may not prove to be hyperbole. So far, all indications are his words are prophetic. While Alabama football fans revel in giddiness, Nick Saban tries to quash any satisfaction among his players.

Nick is, of course, is correct. The Crimson Tide failed to dominate the line of scrimmage at key times against the Aggies. There are tougher defensive fronts to come. Overall the Tide rushing attack in the TAMU game was mediocre. Considering the Tide running back roster, not having a powerful rushing attack is unacceptable.

Saban will give his team an extra day of rest on Monday. That does not mean the Tide coaching staff will let up on the daily grind of analyzing and planning the continuing ‘work-in-progress’ effort needed by the team.

Changes on the offensive line might be a possibility. Matt Womack dressed out Saturday. When fully healthy, he is a proven run blocker.

How good can the 2018 Crimson Tide become? For awhile, maybe a long while, Alabama football fans will have to wait for a clear answer.

One thing it will be difficult for Nick Saban to stifle is Tua’s ability. He is already the best QB in college football and given his limited game experience, he will continue to improve.