At a school known for winning championships, no one who supports the University of Alabama or is invested in the football program was pleased with what happened in the last two years.
Despite winning a conference title in 2018, the Crimson Tide strives for undefeated seasons and national championships — both of which did not happen in 2018 and 2019. No matter what the issues were, coaches, players, administrators and fans were not happy with the product on the field. Before the start of fall practice, the popular saying of “the dynasty is over at Alabama” begin to resurface earlier in the offseason.
Even with the Tide signing the No. 2 class in the country (five 5-stars) back in February, people truly wondered if Nick Saban’s national title window is beginning to close in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
As it returns a roster filled with experience, talent and determination, Alabama has locked on to one goal.
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During his interview with reporters on Monday, Brian Robinson said the team has grown through fall camp.
“We have been staying focused on the task,” he said.
“We have been staying grounded. Everybody is keeping their eyes on the prize, so I think our team is coming together completely. By week one of the season, everyone will be prepared.”
Since he was hired in January of 2007, Saban has not gone three straight years without a national title.
He does not plan on starting the trend now and even with a conference-only schedule, Robinson said he and the team are looking forward to playing the best in the Southeastern Conference.
“Playing an SEC-only schedule will be very competitive, but it will mean a lot to competitive guys like me,” Robinson said. “Every week, you are playing against a good team that can help you grow in some type of way.”
The biggest thing Robinson mentioned was people cannot say Alabama has not played anyone, especially with the grueling lineup it will have in the fall.
“I am very excited for what’s to come with that,” he said.
After improving his numbers last year, Robinson looks to make a huge jump in production. The Tuscaloosa native must fend off a surging Trey Sanders, but he’s looked in fall camp. Other coaches are rising in college football; however, Saban still sees himself as the best in the sport.
He and the team have a chance to silence all critics, starting with its game versus Missouri.
The Tide will battle the Tigers on Sept. 26.
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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.
