The self-proclaimed “Worldwide Leader in Sports” has its preseason power index for college football ready.
Despite it having to replace experience on offense, ESPN has Alabama football ranked No.1 for next season. The Crimson Tide graduates Mac Jones, Najee Harris, DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, Landon Dickerson, Alex Leatherwood, and Deonte Brown to the National Football League; however, it returns a roster full of talent. Defensively, the Tide has the majority of its playmakers back, and Pete Golding is prepared to take a step forward as a play-caller.
ESPN gives Alabama an FPI of 28, a percentage of 76.3 to make the College Football Playoff, a percentage of 30.8 to win a national championship, and a percentage of 51.3 to win the Southeastern Conference.
The network projects the Tide to go 11-1 in the upcoming fall. Alabama has a challenging schedule that starts with the Miami Hurricanes on Sept. 4; however, it will be interesting to see where the loss comes in — if it should happen.
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Overall, Nick Saban is excited for the journey to repeat as a national champion.
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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.
