Raw honesty is something we respect as people, regardless of profession.
No one knew the direction Pete Golding would take in his presser on Thursday of last week; however, there were thoughts Alabama fans wanted to have addressed. For a program built on dominant defensive play, the Crimson Tide allowed 18.5 points per game in 2019 — the most by any group of the Nick Saban era.
It was not the worst thing in the world, but it was not the standard either.
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Despite it still finishing in the top-20 in college football for scoring defense and total defense, supporters of the Tide were not happy with last year’s unit. Multiple instances took place where the team could not tackle, pressure the quarterback, or even get stops on third down.
In terms of other moments, if Alabama could have gotten one stop — it would have beaten Louisiana State University at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Even though he had injuries at critical positions on the team, Golding blamed no one but himself.
As his enters his third year, second at defensive coordinator, he fully understands the tasks in front of him. He has endured much criticism this offseason, but the 36-year-old came for this kind of pressure.
“That’s why I took this job,” Golding said. “I took this job because I wanted to coach the best defense in the country. That’s the expectation of this place, and I don’t want anything differently. So, the bottom line is it’s our job to put the best product on the field.”
Looking back on the mental errors, missed tackles and undisciplined penalties, Golding wants to get things right.
“That’s on me,” he said. “I’m the defensive coordinator. I have to do a better job of getting guys prepared and playing fast.”
As much as people were calling for it, Saban could not turn Golding away easily. Not only does he see Kirby Smart in the Louisiana native, but Saban also sees a younger version of himself.
To help Golding, he hired Charlie Strong (defensive analyst) and Freddie Roach (defensive line coach). Both guys have provided wisdom and are crafting ways to help Golding be better.
He has a healthy roster now, so this season bears no excuses.
The mantra for his defense is FSP, which stands for fast, smart and physical style of play.
For all three to be accomplished and a national championship to be won, Golding must have everyone in position to be successful.
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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.
