SEC Football: Biggest offseason question for every team

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide players celebrate winning the trophy after the SEC Championship college football game against the Florida Gators at Georgia Dome. Alabama defeated Florida 54-16. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

14 of 14

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) points as he gets ready to throw the ball against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Alabama Crimson Tide, 14-1 (8-0)

Can Alabama simply reload, again?

For once, Alabama doesn’t have quarterback questions. Jalen Hurts is back to lead the Crimson Tide after a dynamic true freshman campaign, making this year the first since 2013 Alabama welcomes back its starter from the previous season. Hurts completed 62.8 percent of his passes for 2,780 yards and 23 touchdowns with only nine interceptions in 15 games and led the Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Hurts will also have some of his biggest weapons back, including running backs Bo Scarbrough and Damien Harris, as well as top receiver Calvin Ridley.

However, the number of players leaving Tuscaloosa is always long. Alabama must replace departed seniors O.J. Howard, Reuben Foster (the team’s leading tackler last season), pass rushers Jonathan Allen, Ryan Anderson and Tim Williams (who combined for 28.5 sacks last year), and safety and special teams star Eddie Jackson (who scored twice on punt returns last season and intercepted six passes in 2015, including two he returned for touchdowns). But, the Crimson Tide will also be without Marlon Humphrey, Cam Robinson and ArDarius Stewart, who left school following their junior seasons.

Alabama is expected to challenge the record for most players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Any team would be concerned losing such a large number of key players, but the Crimson Tide have a history of simply reloading, putting together a team filled with five-star prospects (Bama has seven straight No. 1 ranked recruiting classes dating back to 2011, according to the 247Sports Composite), and continuing its dominance.

Next: Pac-12: Biggest question for every team

The Crimson Tide has talent all over the field and has an experienced quarterback. Plus, Alabama was so far ahead of the pack in the SEC last season, it’s easy to understand why the Tide will likely be the favorite to win its fourth consecutive title in 2017, and will possibly begin the season as the No. 1 ranked team in the nation.

Home/College Football