When the strength staff is flexing, a special energy is being created at a program.
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Dr. Matt Rhea and David Ballou were hired to the University of Alabama last year to stop the soft tissue injuries and provide better conditioning techniques for football players. Despite not having spring practice in 2020, the duo alleviated the Crimson Tide of all preseason medical mishaps. Alabama was able to peak at the right time and capture a College Football Playoff National Championship. As the Tide looks to run it back this year, other schools will try to mimic its success in the sports science realm.
Rhea welcomes the competition, but he is more confident in his staff.
I am not worried about imitators. No way someone can do us better than us. True innovators may pose a competitive threat but I like our chances there.
— Matt Rhea, PhD (@MattRheaPhD) March 20, 2021
He specializes in speed and injury prevention, while Ballou carries the peak power approach. The success of both coaches led to Alabama having a Joe Moore Award-winning offensive line, three Heisman finalists, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner (DeVonta Smith), and six All-Americans. Fans of the Crimson Tide are excited to see how Rhea will continue to keep players healthy in the fall.
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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.
