With Alabama Offensive Coordinator Steve Sarkisian headed to become the Head Coach at Texas, who is next to run the Alabama Football offense?
What a weird and different week it has been for all of college football, including the Alabama Crimson Tide. After defeating Notre Dame and advancing to the College Football Playoff Championship, watching Ohio State stomp Clemson, and a few other things, Alabama found out Saturday that Offensive Coordinator, Steve Sarkisian, will accept the head coaching position at the University of Texas. It has been confirmed he will coach Alabama vs. Ohio State in the National Championship on January 11th, but it is definitely not too early to get a fresh look at who the Crimson Tide might target to take over their record-breaking offense. Below are five ideal candidates who I see could possibly take the place of Sarkisian.
1.) Phil Longo- Offensive Coordinator, North Carolina
This should be the first call Alabama Football makes as they look for their new play-caller. Longo is an underrated coach who has had the pleasure of working with quarterback Sam Howell and running back Javonte Williams, who has seen his draft stock rise like crazy this season. The Tar Heels rank No. 5 in total offense this season, which includes ranking No. 4 in first downs, No. 7 in scoring offense, and Longo is a big reason for that. Combine him with the stacked talent that Alabama brings back next season, even with the Tide likely losing several key starters, the Crimson Tide will be in a good position.
2.) Hugh Freeze- Head Coach, Liberty
This might seem like an odd pick, but what we know about Freeze is good enough. He can call plays that work, he’s a good recruiter, and is good when he has a roster that fits his play-calling. That being said, with quarterback Bryce Young next year, wide receiver John Metchie, Slade Bolden, Xavier Williams, and company, Freeze would do a great job in my opinion. The big question though, would he actually leave his head coaching job at Liberty University? He did just lead his team to a big win over undefeated Coastal Carolina. Either way, Freeze would likely be welcomed to Tuscaloosa with open arms. Just take a look at how many points his Ole Miss teams scored against Alabama.