The University of Alabama football team did not finish the 2023 season as national champions, but it did accomplish something to finish the campaign.

According to the Associated Press, the Crimson Tide finished as a top five team in the latest poll.

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Alabama finished the 2023 campaign ranked No. 5 by the AP. It defeated Georgia in the Southeastern Conference Championship Game, yet it sits behind Georgia (No. 4), Texas (No. 3), Washington (No. 2), and Michigan (No. 1). As the SEC Champion, the Tide looks to return to the College Football Playoff stronger next season and capture a national championship.

It loses players to the NFL Draft and the NCAA transfer portal; however, Alabama returns marquee talent.

Nick Saban signed another big-time recruiting class and hopes some of the 2024 guys can make an impact.

Spring football will be here soon for the Crimson Tide.

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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.