Alabama Football: Ten reasons Crimson Tide will win it all
By Ronald Evans
5. A repeat pairing of Bryce Young and Bill O’Brien – Not since the 2013 season has the Crimson Tide returned its Offensive Coordinator and its starting Quarterback. The 2013 season did not produce a three-peat for the Tide even with the return of OC, Doug Nussmeier and A.J. McCarron. When Bill O’Brien joined the Crimson Tide before last spring, Mac Jones taught him the Alabama offense. O’Brien adapted well, added some of his wrinkles and produced. He should build off that in ’22 with an offense harder to defend. Bryce too will be better, and he has been outspoken that having another season with O’Brien is huge for him. As was predicted a week ago, in the 2022 season, Bryce Young will become the Tide’s career passing leader.
6. James Burnip will be a more consistent punter – Burnip came to Tuscaloosa with a strong leg. His problem last season was inconsistency. Based on recent comments by Nick Saban, Burnip has improved.
7. The Alabama football offensive line will be better – Even with obvious problems in the offensive line last season, the Crimson Tide almost won it all. Having to replace an NFL, first-round left tackle is not a typical recipe for OL improvement. Tyler Steen may be very good at LT, but he is no Evan Neal. Why will the 2022 Alabama Crimson Tide be an exception? It is because of a coaching change. Eric Wolford quickly won over the offensive line room. The former Kentucky coach has also earned numerous words of confidence from Nick Saban. An offensive line must function as a unit and this one, coached by Wolford, will be better than last season.