Alabama’s defense is back.
This was the statement that multiple sources confirmed with yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine at the conclusion of the Crimson Tide’s first scrimmage of fall camp.
“The defense dominated the first scrimmage,” one source said.
After surrendering 18-plus points a game in each of the last two years, the Tide looks to return to its stingy ways. Despite its 32 sacks in 2019, the output was a big drop from having 52 and 54 sacks in 2015 and 2016.
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While the offensive line did a great job at run-blocking, pass protection was a small issue.
Ben Davis and Christopher Allen performed well at outside linebacker; nevertheless, a pair of true freshmen got the headlines. Per sources, William Anderson (five-star) had between three to five sacks. He has the physical tools and potential to have the success Tim Williams (2013-16) had as an edge rusher for the Tide.
The 6-foot-4, 235-pounder led a group at Dutchtown High School (Georgia) that allowed 7.7 points per game in 2019.
Anderson had 22 sacks and 15 tackles for loss during his senior season.
No stats were provided on Drew Sanders; however, sources said he ‘played very well.’
With the communication back strong and players pressuring the pocket, Nick Saban is excited about the defense — especially at outside linebacker.
According to Justin Smith, the lead scouting and recruiting analyst for TDA, Sanders earned a diamond grade of one and it means he projects as an “immediate contributor and game changer.”
“Chris Allen and Ben Davis are older guys that have experience at the position,” Saban said.
“They have done well, but we also have several freshmen. Drew Sanders and William Anderson have shown promise. They are still working through understanding what to do, but both are guys that can contribute to our team.”
Sanders, a five-star from Denton, Texas, was one of the top utility prospects in the 2020 recruiting cycle.
An alumnus of Ryan High School, he played quarterback, linebacker and tight end.
Sanders recorded 48 rushing/receiving scores for his career, while tossing 10 touchdown passes. During his senior year, he collected 119 tackles — including 10 for loss and eight sacks.
The 6-foot-5, 230-pounder also had three interceptions, two of which were returned for scores. In watching his high school film, one can draw comparisons to Ryan Anderson and Dillon Lee with Sanders.
“Sanders is a sleeper. He’s going to be really good,” another source said.
The sports performance team of David Ballou and Dr. Matt Rhea have kept everyone healthy to this point. Should things continue to progress, the Tide may have an undefeated national championship team.
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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.
