This is the final week without action for Alabama football.
Next Friday, the Crimson Tide starts preseason camp. Since 2018, its defense has dealt with much criticism.
RELATED: Projected offensive two-deep depth chart for Alabama football in 2021 season
National media is wondering whether Alabama can be elite anymore. Nick Saban returns many veterans, but he also has young players that are ready to work. Throughout the spring, he was excited about this group and is prepared to watch the dominance take place on the field.
Regardless of college football favoring offenses, the Tide looks to show great defense still matters. After crafting a projected offensive depth chart, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine now projects the defense.
Defensive End: LaBryan Ray/Byron Young
Defensive (Nose) Tackle: DJ Dale/Tim Smith
Defensive End: Phidarian Mathis/Justin Eboigbe
Summary: Alabama has LaBryan Ray, Phidarian Mathis, and DJ Dale back as veterans.
The Crimson Tide possesses a deep rotation along its defensive front; however, a healthy Ray makes this unit dangerous in pressuring quarterbacks and stopping the run. As a redshirt senior, the former five-star has not been 100 percent since his sophomore year in 2018.
Coach Saban has spoken on how Ray gives the defense a different look when he is healthy.
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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.
