Whatever format is used in spring games, they are a challenge to decipher. Does one position group standing out mean the opposing position group is seriously lacking? The Alabama Football A-Day scrimmage was no different.
The Crimson Tide position group under the most scrutiny on Saturday was the offensive line. The best assessment is that new coach, Adrian Klemm's units are works-in-progress. Like last season, Alabama did not run the ball well during the scrimmage. A slimmed-down Daniel Hill looked quicker and more elusive. Freshman Trae'shawn Brown showed enough potential to become a key member of the Tide's 2026 running back rotation. Otherwise, around 30 carries from the Tide's top healthy running backs produced 64 yards.
Based on the public scrimmage, the 'work' to improve the Crimson Tide's rushing attack did not produce 'progress.' The problem is believed to lie with the offensive line, not the running backs. If that is correct, a healthy EJ Crowell, who did not play on Saturday, is not likely to fare better.
Not to be ignored is that the defensive front the Alabama offensive line battled may prove to be its best in many seasons. The 2026 season may not have many opposing defenses that will offer such challenge. Also, pass protection in the scrimmage was generally adequate. There were exceptions when the Tide's QBs came under quick pressure, but overall, the pass pro appeared to be better than it was a year ago.
With an effective running game, an Alabama offensive line that is good, but not great at pass protection, might be enough. Minus a balanced attack, Keelon Russell's escapability may be essential.
Alabama Football Surprise
From left to right, the first unit offensive line on Saturday was Jackson Lloyd, Mal Waldrep, Racin Delgatty, Michael Carroll, and Jayvin James. Until Saturday, Carroll at right guard was thought to be cross-training, aiding the progress of a third tackle. Carroll was so good at right tackle last season that moving him to guard permanently was believed to be unlikely.
Now it appears that after a healthy William Sanders takes one of the guard spots, Carroll will remain at guard as well. Carroll prefers playing tackle, but he has bought into the move to guard, "It was honestly like this is what we have to do for what's best for the team. Like we have to have a run game. We need you. We want you to be the leader, the guy for us. So I was like, you know what, if my team wants to do that, I want to help my team win. I'll do it for the team."
Alabama must have an effective run game, and the best chance comes from Sanders and Carroll playing guard. The right tackle position just needs to not be a liability.
Note: 'Post-spring' in this post's title is not 100% accurate. Alabama will practice two more times before spring work ends.