Grading Alabama Football’s Offense Positionally in 2024
The Alabama Crimson Tide football program has long been the standard for success in college football, and much of its legacy can be attributed to the offensive prowess the team has displayed over the years. With a national championship pedigree, Alabama has consistently boasted one of the most dynamic and efficient offenses in the country. As we head into the 2024 season, Alabama football faces the challenge of continuing to stay atop the college football landscape, especially in the ever-competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). With changes to the roster, new talent coming in, and a deep history of success, it is essential to examine how the 2024 offense shapes up. In this article, we will break down Alabama’s offense position by position, analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, and overall outlook for each unit.
Quarterback: B
Quarterback play is always under the microscope in Alabama’s high-profile program. Over the past several years, Alabama has enjoyed the services of elite quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Bryce Young—players who have all gone on to the NFL. As the 2024 season approaches, Alabama faces a significant question at the quarterback position, with no clear-cut, established starter heading into the year.
In 2024, Jalen Milroe, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, enters the season with the most experience. Milroe flashed potential in his limited appearances in 2023, providing glimpses of his athleticism, arm strength, and playmaking ability. However, his inconsistent performances have raised questions about his ability to take command of Alabama’s offense in a full-time role. His challenges with accuracy and decision-making will need to be addressed if he is to lead the Tide back to championship contention.
Ty Simpson, a highly touted prospect from the 2023 class, is also in the mix. With limited experience in the 2023 season, Simpson will have to prove that he can handle the pressure of leading Alabama’s offense. His natural talent is undeniable, but it remains to be seen if he can translate that into success on the field.
Overall, the quarterback position is one of uncertainty for Alabama in 2024, and it will be critical for head coach Nick Saban to establish a clear starter who can effectively manage the offense, make timely decisions, and minimize turnovers. Alabama’s offense is built around a balanced attack, and the quarterback must facilitate that. While the talent is present, this position earns a “B” due to the lack of a proven star heading into the season.
Running Back: A-
The running back position is one of the most important in Alabama’s offense, and the Crimson Tide have a history of producing elite tailbacks who go on to NFL success. In 2024, Alabama is expected to have a loaded backfield, with several high-caliber options that will be essential to the team’s offensive attack.
Jase McClellan, who has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career, is the lead back heading into 2024. McClellan is a versatile runner with the ability to make defenders miss in the open field. He has the vision, speed, and agility to break off big plays, and he will be asked to carry a significant portion of the load in the ground game.
Alongside McClellan, Alabama has a dynamic duo in Roydell Williams and freshman standout Justice Haynes. Williams is a powerful back who can gain tough yards between the tackles, while Haynes brings speed and explosiveness, making him a weapon on both running plays and passing downs. Haynes’ potential to contribute early in his career could provide an added dimension to Alabama’s offense.
This running back group is deep, talented, and capable of wearing down defenses over the course of a game. The only reason for a slightly lower grade here is the lack of a true workhorse back who has proven he can handle a heavy workload throughout a full season. Nevertheless, with the depth and versatility in the backfield, Alabama’s running game should remain one of the best in the country in 2024.
Wide Receiver: B+
The wide receiver position for Alabama in 2024 will feature a mix of returning talent and new faces looking to step up in a major way. The wide receiver group was relatively untested in 2023, especially after the departure of star players like Jameson Williams and John Metchie, but the 2024 unit should have an opportunity to make a name for itself.
Jermaine Burton returns as one of the leaders of the wide receiver corps. Burton showed flashes of his potential in 2023 but was sometimes inconsistent. He possesses good size, speed, and a solid catch radius, and he will be relied upon to be a true No. 1 receiver for Alabama in 2024. His ability to stretch the field and make plays down the field will be crucial for the offense.
Alongside Burton, Isaiah Bond, a promising sophomore, will be another key contributor. Bond impressed in limited opportunities in 2023 and has the potential to emerge as one of the SEC’s top playmakers in 2024. His speed and ability to get open deep could be an important aspect of the offense, particularly as Alabama looks to balance its ground game with the passing attack.
Other contributors like Kobe Prentice and newly signed recruits will also need to step up. While the depth of talent is there, this position still feels a little less established compared to some of Alabama’s previous elite receiving corps. As such, the wide receiver group earns a “B+” grade, with the potential for improvement depending on player development and consistency.
Tight End: A
The tight end position has been an integral part of Alabama’s offense in recent years, and 2024 will be no different. Alabama has a wealth of talent at tight end, and the versatility of this group makes it one of the most exciting aspects of the offense.
Cameron Latu, who had a solid career at Alabama, has moved on to the NFL, but the Tide has a highly capable replacement in a trio of tight ends: Amari Niblack, Robbie Ouzts, and a highly anticipated incoming freshman. Niblack is an athletic tight end with the ability to line up in multiple spots, both inline and in the slot. His combination of size and speed allows him to be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. Ouzts, meanwhile, provides a more traditional blocking presence but also possesses decent hands as a safety valve in the passing game.
This tight end group is dynamic, with the ability to contribute both as blockers in the running game and as pass catchers in the red zone. With the versatility that these players bring, the tight end position is one of the strongest on Alabama’s offense, earning an “A” grade. Their ability to make plays and contribute in various ways will help diversify the Alabama offense in 2024.
Offensive Line: B+
The offensive line is the cornerstone of any successful offense, and Alabama has long been known for its ability to dominate up front. However, the 2024 line will face some challenges due to the departure of several key players, including Evan Neal, one of the top offensive tackles in the country. Despite this, Alabama is still expected to field a solid line that can compete with the best in the SEC.
The returning offensive linemen for 2024 will need to step up and fill the void left by Neal and others. Players like Seth McLaughlin, who will anchor the center position, and tackles like JC Latham will play critical roles in ensuring that Alabama’s offense operates smoothly. Latham has the potential to be a future first-round NFL draft pick, and his leadership will be crucial for the unit.
While Alabama has high hopes for its offensive line in 2024, the unit’s relative inexperience and the need for cohesion could lead to growing pains early in the season. As the offensive line gels and young players develop, the group should improve, but it may take some time for the line to reach its full potential. With that in mind, the offensive line earns a “B+” grade, with the expectation that it will be a solid but perhaps slightly inconsistent unit to begin the season.
Conclusion: Overall Grade B+
Alabama’s offense heading into the 2024 season is full of promise but comes with its share of questions. The quarterback position remains the most significant area of concern, as the team looks to find a reliable leader under center. However, the running back group is one of the best in the nation, the tight end unit is loaded with talent, and the offensive line, while young, has the potential to grow into a strong force.
With a strong core of players in the skill positions, the 2024 Alabama offense has the potential to be one of the top units in college football. However, the development of the quarterback position and the offensive line will ultimately determine whether the Crimson Tide can reach the level of dominance that fans and analysts have come to expect.
Overall, Alabama’s offense in 2024 earns a “B+” grade, reflecting both the excitement around the potential of the unit and the need for some key players to step up and perform consistently. With Nick Saban’s track record of success and his ability to maximize talent, Alabama’s offense should be in good hands as it looks to compete for another SEC title and, ultimately, another national championship.
