Alabama Football: How much can CFB’s top six teams improve?
By Ronald Evans
Georgia Bulldogs – No. 2 in both polls
How can a team be ranked No. 2 after failing to score an offensive touchdown in its first game? In the Bulldogs’ case, it is all about the defense. The Georgia defensive front is the nation’s best. The linebackers are not far below the Crimson Tide. Kirby’s weakest defensive link is the secondary. How good or not good J.T. Daniels is, remains unknown. Reports are he is likely to miss the UAB game because of an injury. Daniels and other injured players, George Pickens and Darnell Washington will return at some point. Even after the offensive roster is healthy, the Georgia offense may just be good, rather than great.
Ohio State Buckeyes – No. 3 in both polls
The Buckeyes don’t have glaring weaknesses, but two areas are a concern. A great wide receiver corps can only produce as well as new starting QB, C.J. Stroud does. Against Minnesota, Stroud made some quality throws, but did not come close to matching the poise shown by Bryce Young. The Buckeyes’ linebacker group can be very good in space, but stuffing a top-rushing attack could be too much for them. With a few more games of experience, Stroud should be fine. Whether he will become an elite QB remains to be seen. National Championships are not won by teams without elite quarterbacks.
Oklahoma Sooners – No. 4 in both polls
The every preseason claim the Sooners’ defense will be better, is always wrong. Based on the Tulane game, it is wrong again this season. Without the makes of three long, field goals, homeless Tulane might have upset the Sooners. In addition, Oklahoma’s offense was terrible on third down and gained only 34 more yards than the Green Wave. Perhaps Lincoln Riley can develop his guys into a Playoff team, but being a true Championship contender is less likely.