There were several things that stood out about Alabama’s coaching philosophies during the 2024 season. One thing that stood out in particular to me was the substitutions that took place along the offensive front.
Over the course of the season, Alabama offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic used a makeshift offensive line on the right side.
Oftentimes, redshirt juniors Jaeden Roberts and Geno VanDeMark were seen rotating at the right guard position. In addition, redshirt freshman Wilkin Formby and redshirt sophomore Elijah Pritchett split time at right tackle.
However you view it, Alabama struggled to find consistency along the offensive front. At times, one player would look better. Then, another player would look better the next week. While it might be an unpopular opinion, I believe that the rotating was actually beneficial for the Crimson Tide.
At first, it seems too far-fetched to believe. In the past, Alabama has not had the issue of rotating offensive linemen as often as it did last year. With the way that the college football landscape has evolved over the years, it makes sense to play as many players as possible. After all, it allows them to get valuable experience, develop, and become acclimated to the rigors that the SEC brings week-in and week-out.
This coaching staff seemed to pick up on the fact that the SEC is different. No one game is easier than the other. Every week is a test. With the uncertainty of injury, it is crucial to have other players ready. In this case, Alabama had at least two offensive linemen vetted and prepared to replace others in the case that they struggle or suffer an injury.
In 2024, Roberts battled through injuries all season long. Therefore, Coach Kapilovic placed an emphasis on playing VanDeMark as much as possible. With Alabama losing left guard Tyler Booker to the NFL this offseason, VanDeMark now has experience and knowledge of playing both positions.
When it comes to Formby, he was able to see what it takes to play in the SEC. His reoccurring struggles will help him prioritize the things that he needs to work on this offseason. He has the potential to be an everyday right tackle for Alabama.
Alabama also has other players like Michael Carroll, Casey Poe, and Roq Montgomery that can play multiple positions. Position flexibility and depth are crucial to have in the SEC. In this case, Alabama has established depth and will continue to heading into the 2025 season.
For these reasons, Alabama will reap the benefits of the changes that were made along the offensive front over the course of the 2024 season and heading into the 2025 season.
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Brody Smoot is a team reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “follow” him on X, via @brodysmoot.
