Alabama fans have been waiting for that raw, motivating, get your mind right coach since Scott Cochran left.

Has the Crimson Tide found that person to put the team in the right mindset? It appeared that way in Thursday's practice as David Ballou -- Alabama's Director of Sports Performance -- had guys locked in during the exercise period. Kalen DeBoer has instituted morning practices in fall camp, but the heat remains a factor. Ballou opened practice talking about mental toughness and not letting the heat dictate your performance. He had the players and fans ready to run through a wall for his message.

Friday Motivation 😤#RollTide pic.twitter.com/bZb0loE5yh

— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) August 2, 2024

Cochran's motivation led to several national championships, and Alabama is in good hands if Ballou has that same mindset.

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Ballou was hired by Nick Saban in 2020 from Indiana. He helped the Crimson Tide to a College Football Playoff that season and has captured three Southeastern Conference title rings. Ballou wants a second national title, and he's pushing guys to be stronger.

Tide fans want him to get Alabama through fall camp without injuries.

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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.