Grading Alabama Football’s Offensive Positions in 2024

As we enter the 2024 season, Alabama football’s offense remains a centerpiece of intrigue and optimism under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban. Over the years, Alabama has become synonymous with tough, physical football and a potent, balanced offense. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the 2024 squad has the potential to build on recent successes and return to championship contention. Here, we’ll take a detailed look at Alabama’s offensive positions in 2024, grading each one based on performance, depth, and overall potential.

Quarterback: A-

Alabama’s quarterback situation heading into 2024 offers a blend of experience, potential, and competition. While the Crimson Tide lost Bryce Young to the NFL, a new era is underway, and there’s optimism around the players vying for the starting role. As of now, the competition is expected to come down to Ty Simpson, a former five-star recruit, and Jalen Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback with experience starting in 2023.

Ty Simpson offers a more traditional pocket-passing style but has the tools to stretch defenses, including a strong arm and good decision-making ability. He showed flashes in limited action during his freshman season and is primed for a bigger role in 2024.
Jalen Milroe, meanwhile, is an athletic marvel who can break plays open with his legs. His ability to make explosive plays with his feet makes him a dangerous threat, but his consistency as a passer remains a question mark. Milroe’s development as a passer will be critical for Alabama’s success this year.

The competition between Simpson and Milroe is likely to continue into the season, and how it shakes out will significantly influence the offensive rhythm. However, with Alabama’s offensive line and playmakers, whoever wins the starting job will have the tools to succeed. The depth at quarterback is solid, making this an A-minus grade for the position.

Running Back: A

Alabama’s running back room is one of the most talented in the country, and the 2024 season should be no exception. The Tide boasts a combination of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen who can carry the load.

Jase McClellan, a veteran back, should be the primary option in 2024. McClellan has showcased his ability as both a rusher and a receiving threat out of the backfield. His speed and vision make him a tough runner between the tackles, and he can be used effectively in space as well.
Roydell Williams, another experienced running back, provides valuable depth. Williams has a more physical running style than McClellan and is a reliable option in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Richard Young, a freshman, enters the fold as one of the top running back recruits in the nation. His blend of power and speed could make him an immediate contributor, possibly earning snaps alongside McClellan and Williams.

The committee approach at running back will keep defenders guessing, and the running backs’ collective ability to break long runs and contribute in the passing game offers Alabama a balanced, dynamic backfield. Overall, the running back position in 2024 looks to be in great shape, meriting an A grade.

Wide Receiver: B+

The wide receiver position at Alabama in 2024 is one of both promise and uncertainty. The Tide lost a few key contributors, including Jermaine Burton, who had been a top target. However, there’s plenty of talent waiting to step up.

Malik Benson, a transfer from the junior college ranks, is perhaps the most exciting player to watch at receiver. Known for his elite speed and playmaking ability, Benson has the potential to become Alabama’s go-to guy in the passing game. He brings a deep threat element to the offense that could stretch defenses and open up other parts of the field.
Kobe Prentice, a promising sophomore, will also have a major role. Prentice impressed as a freshman and has the agility and route-running skills to be a dependable target in the intermediate passing game.
Isaiah Bond and Amari Niblack also provide solid options at wideout and tight end, respectively. Bond, in particular, offers explosive speed, and Niblack’s ability to line up at tight end or in the slot gives Alabama some versatile weapons.

While Alabama’s receiving corps is filled with talent, the group lacks the proven star power it’s had in previous seasons. With the departure of key playmakers, the receivers will need to establish more consistency and build a rapport with the quarterback to reach their full potential. Overall, the position earns a solid B+ grade.

Tight End: A

The tight end position is shaping up to be one of Alabama’s strongest offensive units in 2024. Tight ends have long been a key feature in Alabama’s offensive scheme, and this season promises to showcase the versatility of the position.

C.J. Dippre, a transfer from Maryland, is expected to make an immediate impact. Dippre is an exceptional athlete with a good blend of blocking ability and receiving skills. He’ll be a key piece in both the running and passing game, providing the offense with an added layer of unpredictability.
Amari Niblack, as mentioned before, can also line up as a tight end, though he may be used more as a hybrid player who can split out wide. His speed and athleticism allow him to create mismatches against slower linebackers or smaller defensive backs.

Having two capable tight ends who can block and catch passes gives Alabama a lot of flexibility in their offensive game plan. Whether it’s in the red zone or on third down, the tight ends will be integral to Alabama’s success. This depth and versatility in the tight end room earn the position an A grade.

Offensive Line: A-

Alabama’s offensive line has long been one of the team’s calling cards, and while 2024’s unit may not have the same overwhelming depth of past years, it still has the potential to be one of the top lines in the country.

J.C. Latham, the leader of the offensive line, returns as one of the top offensive tackles in the nation. Latham is a powerful player who excels both in the run game and as a pass protector. His ability to lock down the edge will be crucial for Alabama’s success, especially with the potential transition to a new quarterback.
Seth McLaughlin at center and Tyler Booker at guard bring a wealth of experience. McLaughlin is the anchor of the interior line and is known for his smart decision-making and toughness. Booker has been a dominant force, both in the run game and as a protector of the quarterback.
The depth is solid, but some question marks exist at the tackle spots behind Latham, and the team will need to develop the next wave of players to be ready if injuries or rotation are needed.

Alabama’s offensive line should be able to open holes for the running backs and provide solid protection for the quarterback. While it may not be as dominant as some of the Tide’s more famous units, the 2024 offensive line is still one of the nation’s top groups, earning an A- grade.