Of the problems that hurt the University of Alabama in January versus Clemson, youth in the secondary was probably the biggest one. The lack of a consistent pass rush to Trevor Lawrence at quarterback allowed for him to target receivers Justyn Ross and Tee Higgins for huge plays, which generated much frustration to Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide’s defensive backs.
Despite having some veteran leadership, Alabama did not have enough players that were versatile in every role. This season, on the other hand, Saban has a group with more experience and a hunger to snatch respect in becoming the best group in college football.
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Even with having just three seniors – Trevon Diggs, Shyheim Carter and Jared Mayden — and one true junior in Xavier McKinney, Saban spoke on Thursday about the different guys who have learned more than one position in the secondary. According to the six-time national champion, players such as Carter and Mayden have mastered three roles apiece.
“Shyheim Carter can play star, money and either safety spot,” Saban said. “Jared Mayden can play at either safety spot and at star.”
After holding Patrick Surtain II to being a cornerback as a freshman, the five-star has added the star (nickel) role to his game. During the media period for players on Monday, Diggs spoke on the growth he has seen the sophomore make this offseason in learning a new position.
“He has tremendous ability,” Diggs said of Surtain.
“Last year, he was young and finding his way but now he knows the system. I feel like he is a better star than I was. I try to teach him simple things like route concepts, reading wide receiver alignments, but as far as the position, I feel like he knows the position way better than I do.”
Surtain, a native of Plantation, Fla., spoke before Diggs and the biggest advice he gave himself was to value film study to recognize plays before they happen.
Rough outings versus Oklahoma and Clemson in the College Football Playoff have set the stage for a better season from Surtain. Per Saban, McKinney is established at safety and money (dime) and freshman DeMarcco Hellams is being trained at safety and money as well.
As for Jalyn Armour-Davis, the redshirt freshman has learned corner and star.
The reason for Saban doing this is he does not want Alabama caught in a situation where its best players are not on the field. This year’s secondary must be a jack of all trades, so that each transition goes smoothly.
After some confusion in 2018, Alabama is better prepared defensively to create turnovers, pressure quarterbacks and have an overall unit ready to win a national championship.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
