Forcing turnovers is an aspect of Alabama’s defense that made it great under Nick Saban.
During his six national championship seasons in Tuscaloosa, Ala., Saban witnessed his defense force 10+ turnovers. No matter if it was an interception, a fumble recovery, or a pick-six, the Crimson Tide had an opportunistic defense in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020. The numbers have dipped this year as the Tide has managed to create four turnovers, including two for scores.
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Will Anderson (linebacker), DeMarcco Hellams (safety), and Terrion Arnold (cornerback) each have an interception.
Dallas Turner, a sophomore linebacker, returned a fumble for a touchdown against Tennessee. Coach Saban has been frustrated with the lack of turnovers, especially seeing how the Tide practices turnover drills each week. In Thursday’s radio show, he expressed those frustrations and looks to see how the team can improve.
“Just teaching players how to do that and then putting them in drills where they have a chance to do it,” Saban said. “It’s frustrating when you try to teach all these things and you don’t actually see it in a game like you want it to happen.”
Alabama has come close to forcing more turnovers, but it has played quarterbacks that pass the ball quickly or defensive backs have not finished plays for turnovers. The Tide has another opportunity against LSU on Saturday. If it can affect Tigers’ quarterback Jayden Daniels, Alabama will force mistakes from LSU.
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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.
