Crimson Tide fans are more than a little relieved to have a new Defensive Coordinator. The added bonus with Kevin Steele is Nick Saban knows exactly what Steele brings to the coaching staff. Other than Kirby Smart, Kevin Steele has more experience running Nick Saban’s defense than anyone.
Alabama football fans are expecting a more aggressive and a more physical defense under Steele. With maybe one exception, Steele has all the personnel resources needed to give the Crimson Tide a much-improved defense in 2023.
That one possible exception is depth on the defensive line. At least twice in media reviews during fall camp, Nick Saban has stressed more depth is needed. So far, Saban appears unconvinced the Crimson Tide has more than four or five defensive linemen who will consistently play winning football.
The Tide secondary does and does not have much experience. But most of the lack of experience applies only to time in Tuscaloosa. Both transfers are experienced players. Kool-Aid and Malachi Moore have considerable experience. Terrion Arnold has less, but he is a third-year player. Possibly in the Tide’s dime defense, only freshman Caleb Downs lacks college game experience.
At linebacker, especially outside linebacker, the over-used term ‘loaded’ is accurate.