Disappointed does not even begin the conversation, in terms of Alabama fans sharing their emotions on last year’s defense.
Many factors played a role in the Crimson Tide not being as dominant as it is known for. Injuries was one of those aspects, seeing how inside linebackers Dylan Moses and Joshua McMillon both suffered season-ending mishaps in August.
On top of this, LaBryan Ray (defensive end) sustained a foot injury three weeks into the campaign and DJ Dale (defensive tackle) got hurt as well. Regardless of the injuries, Tide fans noticed a lot of shuffling and substitutions on the field. A lack of communication was also a problem, as Xavier McKinney had to do everything from his safety spot.
Despite losing two games by a combined eight points, Auburn and LSU caught Alabama slipping on defense.
The additions of David Ballou and Dr. Matt Rhea will solve the injury problem; however, spring practice and fall camp will be vital for Pete Golding. As he enters his third year– second at defensive coordinator — an improvement must be made. Even with a top-20 finish in 2019 for scoring defense (18.6 ppg, No. 13) and total defense (324.6 ypg, No. 20), it wasn’t good enough.
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Alabama gave 94 points and 913 yards combined to LSU and Auburn. Both losses cost the Tide a chance to play for a Southeastern Conference Championship and advance into the College Football Playoff.
Per an article from AL.com, Terrell Lewis told reporters at the NFL Combine that a ‘lack of communication’ was the reason behind Alabama’s defensive struggles.
In terms of whether it was player-to-player or coach-to-player communication, Lewis said the communication from the top down and even play calling was an issue.
Raekwon Davis and Shyheim Carter were both asked the same question.
They took the approach of blaming themselves; nevertheless, Lewis was a prominent name at Alabama and his statement holds weight.
Golding cannot allow for communication issues to happen this season, especially with Saban going after his seventh national title overall.
Also, look at the hire Alabama made for Charlie Strong.
He was brought to be an analyst, but an opportunity to run this defense at some point has to ponder on his mind. Strong has national championship experience as a coordinator at the University of Florida (2006, 2008) and is well-respected in the profession by his peers.
At the same time, Golding has a great relationship with the players.
In reflecting on Tennessee’s 1998 national championship season under Phillip Fulmer, Peyton Manning had left for the National Football League and Tee Martin was the quarterback.
The team around Martin did not allow him to fail, and it went on to win a title.
Players like Moses, McMillon, Dale, Ray, Christian Barmore and Patrick Surtain II among others have the mindset of not allowing Golding to fail. He has to it for himself too, but all eyes will be on him this season.
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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.
