Can the Alabama Crimson Tide get back to its championship defensive standard? After a tough first year for defensive coordinator, Pete Golding let’s dig into some research to see if the cards are in his favor.
It goes without saying the Alabama Crimson Tide had a “down” year in terms of the defense. For what seems like the first time in the Nick Saban era, the Crimson Tide ranked outside the Top 15 in total defense, while finishing at number 20 overall, per NCAA stats. There were obvious reasons for such a rough defensive season. It was the 1st year defensive coordinator Pete Golding was the head man on defense. Injuries to former Butkus Award winner, linebacker Dylan Moses, rising Joshua McMillion, speed rusher Christopher Allen, Trevon Diggs, LaBryan Ray, and even true freshman, starting defensive tackle, DJ Dale, severely diminished the Tide’s talents.
With those types of injuries, a team can only do so much. Thankfully Nick Saban and company are considered one of the best in recruiting year in, and year out. Below I will go in-depth on why the 2020 season will be different. Adding why the 2020 Crimson Tide defense will be considered one of college football’s best.
One of the biggest factors people are looking forward to is–recovery from injuries. Last year seemed like a complete exodus of the Alabama defense as one after another fell to some form of injury. Thankfully the majority of players who were injured will be fully healthy. Pete Golding will have an easier go-around in terms of statistics. Last season’s defensive issues, where the Tide allowed an average of only 18 points per game, and allowed 31 against Ole Miss, 28 against Texas A&M, 46 against LSU, and 48 against Auburn, should not be repeated. Let’s stop the ranting and get to business.