The 2024 college football season is fast approaching, and few teams are generating as much excitement as Kalen DeBoer’s Alabama Crimson Tide. The retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban has significantly impacted the sport, creating a buzz around Tuscaloosa.
Kalen DeBoer deserves considerable praise for adeptly managing the transition during his initial months as head coach. Currently, Alabama boasts the No. 2 ranked recruiting class and shows no signs of slowing down.
However, strong recruiting is only part of the equation; success on the field is crucial. On August 31, DeBoer and the Crimson Tide will take the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium, offering fans their first glimpse of the DeBoer era.
While much of the excitement centers around the offense—with Jalen Milroe returning as quarterback, four offensive line starters back, and top-tier skill players—the defense under new coordinator Kane Wommack remains somewhat uncertain. For Alabama’s defense to become one of the nation’s elite, these five key players need to deliver standout performances.
Cornerback Domani Jackson
Alabama has lost its standout cornerback tandem of Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold to the NFL. Enter Domani Jackson, the transfer from USC and former five-star recruit, who could become the Tide’s next standout player. To be frank, Jackson struggled during his time at USC and has much to prove in the 2024 season. Despite his past challenges, he possesses the talent to excel at Alabama, and the Crimson Tide defense will rely on his performance to maximize its effectiveness.
Linebacker Quandarrious Robinson
Quandarrious Robinson, also known as Q-Rob, has been getting first-team reps for several seasons with the Alabama defense. Having played behind standout players like Will Anderson, Dallas Turner, and Chris Braswell, Robinson is now poised to make a significant impact on opposing quarterbacks. With his exceptional length and athleticism, Robinson has the potential to achieve double-digit sacks for the Tide. If he can deliver such performance in the Wolf position in 2024, the Alabama defense could become extremely formidable.
Husky DeVonta Smith
DeVonta Smith could be the most crucial player on this list. He is anticipated to start at the Husky position in the Alabama secondary, and his performance will be vital for the team’s success. Smith’s potential should not be underestimated. Prior to the 2023 season, he was on track to become a starter but was sidelined by injuries. Now fully healthy, Smith has the chance to emerge as a standout player for the Alabama defense in 2024.
Bandit Jah-Merien Latham
Jah-Marien Latham makes the list primarily because he will be competing with Texas A&M transfer LT Overton for the starting Bandit position. Latham is a talented player who may fit better in Wommack’s defensive scheme compared to Saban’s. Although Latham is a larger lineman, he possesses quick reflexes and could become a strong pass-rushing option. Additionally, as the Bandit, he will need to effectively defend against the run, making physical play crucial. I’m impressed with Latham’s abilities and anticipate that he will have his best season yet in an Alabama uniform.
