12/9/08
The player turnover in Tuscaloosa should be minimal and Nick Saban’s recruiting success (nation's No. 1 rated recruiting class in 2008 by Rivals.com) will certainly be a big factor in the Crimson Tide's continued high ranking in the preseason polls. Most of the questions for next season again rest on the offensive side. Filling holes on the front line to build a stout running game and getting mistake free play out of the new QB are major factors. The OL will take a major hit with All-SEC center Antoine Caldwell moving on and the likelihood that the best OT in college football, Andre Smith, could bolt early for the NFL. Replacing the senior leadership of QB John Parker Wilson will be the biggest ingredient that has to be found this off-season to keep Alabama at the forefront. That battle will likely boil down between Texas native Greg McElroy (played behind Missouri's record setting QB Chase Daniel) and redshirt frosh Star Jackson, a highly touted QB out of the Palm Beach Florida area who has the wheels to add that extra running dimension. Of course, then there is sensational receiver Julio Jones whose name will continue to garner All-Star status for at least the next two seasons. If any one aspect can win Alabama an SEC title this time around, it will come on the defensive side; nine starters are back in the fold, which include three All-SEC honorees. Big 356-pound nose guard Terrence Cody has earned big time recognition after transferring in via the JUCO route for 2008. He is a big key, for veteran linebackers will still continue to roam free of blockers since Cody generally requires a double-team. Middle backer Rolando McClain is on his way to becoming one of the best LBs in Alabama football history. Speedy Javier Arenas, who also doubles as one of the nation's best return men on both punts and kicks, heads a secondary that is blessed with veterans. Two-time All-SEC safety Rashad Johnson will be missed, but there are plenty of capable, experienced bodies. This has become the identity in Tuscaloosa. All eyes will be on these positions during the spring.