It has talked about the fire it has for two seasons, but defensive players for Alabama football are now set to unleash it.
Kevin Steele, 65, is the right defensive coordinator to make sure the dominance comes out.
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He has a wealth of experience in college football — especially the Southeastern Conference — and Steele is in his third stint with the Crimson Tide. We saw disappointment in production from the Tide under Pete Golding, but Alabama fans expect a change from Steele. He gave us a taste of it during the Tide’s spring game in April; however, supporters of the program want more.
Before the team took to Bryant-Denny Stadium for Saturday’s Open Practice/Fan Day, a couple of defensive players spoke to reporters Thursday about Steele and the ‘fire’ he brings to the group. Deontae Lawson, a redshirt sophomore linebacker, said Steele is focused on having the little things right. Lawson, a former four-star, eyes a starting opportunity at middle linebacker.
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“Everyone knows Kevin Steele,” Lawson said. “He is focused on the ball and generating more turnovers, which leads to points.”
Lawson said Steele has emphasized a decrease in penalties. He is huge on discipline and having no mental errors.
“The way he coaches and goes about things, you can tell it is going to be a tough defense,” Lawson said about Steele. “We want to force turnovers.”
Justin Eboigbe, a fifth-year senior on the defensive line, said Steele is keen on the fundamentals.
Eboigbe stated that the defense has a goal and will be relied upon to force turnovers, play fast, and play physical. He told reporters the defense does not change with Steele, but his familiarity with Nick Saban makes things easier.
“Coach Steele has been here before. He knows what Coach Saban likes,” Eboigbe said.
The native Georgian wants the defensive line to be one of the most talked about groups in the nation, but it starts with embracing the personality of the defensive coordinator. Steele does not tolerate nonsense and is about dominance.
Alabama fans are looking forward to watching a special group on the field 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.
