What to look for in Alabama Crimson Tide Scrimmage No. 2
By Ronald Evans
The scrimmage is important, but at right tackle and one of the cornerback spots, performance in early games will also be a test. Neither position is expected to have a locked-in, all-season starter when the Crimson Tide takes on Western Kentucky.
The most frustrating thing about a scrimmage is when one position group excels, it means an opposing position group lags. Often the most obvious area is on the line of scrimmage. How will the front six in the Tide's 3-3-5 do against offensive blockers? This week, while praising defensive line teammate, Tim Keenan, Jaheim Oatis said, "Nobody can block us, so we just go."
Alabama fans hope Oatis is at least close to being correct. But if the Tide's interior offensive line can't block them, how will they fare against other SEC defensive linemen? It is possible both sides of the ball could be nearly equal in winning plays when the scrimmage ends. A good indication mutual respect from the two groups is warranted came this week with LT Overton lauding Parker Brailsford while coaches acknowledged the physical tools of Alabama Bandits, Jah-Marien Latham, and Overton.
How many Alabama Crimson Tide winners on defense?
Most interesting as the season evolves is how many 'winners' the Crimson Tide will regularly rotate into the 'front six'. The depth is exceptional with four former 5-stars, currently tabbed as backups at the Bandit and Wolf positions. Kane Wommack has stated he considers Justin Jefferson a third 'starter' at inside linebacker. The nose guard and defensive tackle slots are deep as well with Tim Smith, James Smith, Damon Payne, and Jordan Renaud. James Smith and Damon Payne were also 5-star recruits. at positions well-suited for player rotation, the overused description 'loaded' is accurate.
Alabama fans are anticipating Saturday's scrimmage will show a fully healthy Jihaad Campbell running alongside Deontae Lawson. There has been no official news of Campbell having a serious injury but he has missed a good bit of contact work in Fall Camp. At 100%, Campbell is a good prediction as a breakout player in 2024.