Alabama spring game 2018: Players and storylines to watch
Storylines
Who will win the quarterback competition?
Until it has been resolved and the answer is known, there is no bigger question for Alabama right now than the starting quarterback battle. And it’s likely going to linger deep into fall camp and possibly into the first month of the regular season, if not longer.
It’s between him and Hurts. While the likely choice seems Tagovailoa, Hurts has been the experienced hand at the quarterback spot the last two seasons and has the most time under his belt at the spot.
While the next landing spot for Hurts is already a talking point, he can still go out and earn the job if he impresses enough in the spring. The 28 games that he has played should go a long way in helping his cause.
Just like the second-half comeback will go a long way toward helping Tagovailoa’s cause. Nick Saban will have a big decision on his hands and everyone knows the likely outcome should he pick the young quarterback that led them to a dramatic comeback against Georgia.
How long will it take new faces on defense to adjust?
The Alabama Crimson Tide are used to losing defensive stars to the NFL Draft and graduation every year, but this year seems to be bigger than most. The Tide are losing most of their starting defense and will need new faces to step up.
Replacing Da’Ron Payne on the defensive line isn’t going to be an easy job and they will need someone that can fill space. Fortunately, they have a massive body such as Raekwon Davis that has been a monster for them.
In the middle, Rashaan Evans was a dynamic leader that did just about everything for them. However, they have two young dynamic players with Mack Wilson and Dylan Moses that could be the next big duo in college football.
Both inside linebackers have seen key playing time in their careers thus far and should be ready to assume the leadership roles that are needed. When an entire unit seemingly departs, leadership is the biggest thing needed early to overcome the hurdles that are facing them.
And of course, the secondary will have plenty to replace as well. Minkah Fitzpatrick is the big name that will exit. Saivion Smith is an experienced cornerback that should play a big role alongside Trevon Diggs. Behind them, Deionte Thompson will be relied upon at the safety spot.
Regardless, with so many faces stepping into new roles and positions of leadership, they will have to gel early. The defense has long been the strength of Alabama and it will be a new wave of the future.
Is Alabama still the top dog in the SEC?
Despite winning the National Championship Game, the Alabama Crimson Tide might not be the top dog anymore in the SEC. That, of course, will have to be played out on the field, but the Georgia Bulldogs are building something special.
The SEC Champions are poised to make a serious run at the conference again and should be a national championship favorite for many. Jake Fromm and the Bulldogs are rolling in the right direction under Kirby Smart.
Even more frightening is how well they did in the recruiting. The Bulldogs landed several top recruits that will only make them that much better down the line with a loaded roster that is already in place.
Next: Biggest question facing every Top 25 team in spring camp
By virtue of being the national champs and having defeated Georgia for it, the Crimson Tide are still the top dog until they are knocked off their pedestal. They are going to have to be ready for a showdown with the Bulldogs if both end up making it to Atlanta for the SEC Championship Game.
Right now, Alabama’s got some young players that are going to be taking over some important positions. The defense is young and adjusting as well. Is this the season the torch is passed? Or will they continue their run of dominance?