As of 2025, Alabama football, under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban, remains one of the premier programs in college football. However, whether the team is performing at its peak requires a closer look at recent trends, roster changes, and the broader landscape of college football. Similarly, Ohio State, another powerhouse in the sport, is expected to continue building a championship-contending roster as it looks toward the future.
Alabama Football: Is It Performing at Its Peak?
Alabama has been synonymous with success in college football for over a decade, particularly under Nick Saban, whose program has redefined expectations for excellence. The Crimson Tide’s recent seasons, though impressive, have sparked debate as to whether Alabama is still performing at its peak.
Recent Performance
While Alabama has consistently remained a contender for the College Football Playoff (CFP) and has enjoyed continued success in the SEC, their performance has been slightly less dominant in the last few seasons compared to their peak years of the 2010s. After winning the 2020 National Championship, Alabama has faced stiffer competition from teams like Georgia and Ohio State, particularly in the Playoff race.
In 2023, Alabama finished with a strong record but lost to Georgia in the SEC Championship Game, and while they made the Playoff, they were eliminated in the semifinal. This performance was a sign of the increased parity in college football, especially as other programs have stepped up their recruiting and development.
One key to Alabama’s dominance has always been their ability to recruit elite talent. However, even with their continued success on the recruiting trail, Alabama’s roster has faced challenges in certain areas. The quarterback position, historically a key factor in Alabama’s success, has had a bit of a revolving door since the departure of Tua Tagovailoa. Jalen Hurts and Bryce Young, both former Heisman contenders, were able to elevate the offense in their time, but the post-Bryce Young era has seen some inconsistency in play at that position, affecting Alabama’s overall rhythm.
Additionally, the rise of Georgia as an SEC powerhouse has made it harder for Alabama to assert the same level of dominance they once did. Under Kirby Smart, Georgia has recruited at a similarly elite level, and its defense in particular has been a formidable force, limiting Alabama’s high-powered offenses. As a result, Alabama’s path to the national title has become more challenging in recent seasons.
Key Areas of Improvement
For Alabama to return to its peak, several aspects need to be addressed. First, the quarterback position remains a major focus. Whether it’s through continued development of young players or through bringing in transfers, Alabama needs to find consistent, high-level play at quarterback. Quarterback development, especially in Saban’s system, has been one of the keys to their past success.
Another area is the overall defense. While Alabama has always prided itself on defense, the influx of high-scoring offenses across the country has put a greater premium on defensive playmakers who can both stop the run and apply pressure in the passing game. Although Alabama has talented players like Will Anderson Jr. and Kool-Aid McKinstry, they need to continue to recruit and develop defensive stars to maintain their competitive edge.
Lastly, maintaining dominance in the trenches—both on the offensive and defensive lines—remains a hallmark of Alabama football. While Alabama has continued to recruit elite linemen, this area will be critical in keeping the Tide at the top of college football.
Ohio State’s 2025 Roster Construction
Ohio State, like Alabama, is a perennial contender in college football, consistently competing for Big Ten titles and CFP berths. The Buckeyes have been a fixture in the College Football Playoff under head coach Ryan Day, and they are expected to continue constructing a championship-caliber roster, particularly as they look toward the 2025 season.
The 2025 Outlook
Ohio State’s recruiting efforts remain exceptional. Under Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have consistently landed top-ranked recruiting classes, including some of the nation’s best quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive players. As the 2025 season approaches, Ohio State is expected to continue this trend, bolstering its roster with high-profile recruits who can contribute immediately.
One key area for Ohio State heading into 2025 is the quarterback position. After the departure of C.J. Stroud, Ohio State’s QB battle is one of the major storylines to watch in 2024, as several young quarterbacks will vie for the starting role. The development of these quarterbacks will be pivotal in Ohio State’s success in 2025. If Ryan Day can establish a strong quarterback in 2024, that will set the foundation for an even stronger 2025 season.
The Buckeyes are also in a prime position to continue their dominance in the wide receiver room. With a legacy of producing elite talent at wide receiver, Ohio State continues to attract top-tier pass-catchers. This talent is crucial in the team’s spread offense, which relies heavily on explosive plays in the passing game. The development of this unit will be key to Ohio State’s offensive success in 2025.
On defense, Ohio State has made significant strides in recent seasons, particularly in the secondary and linebacker corps. However, to truly compete with elite teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan, Ohio State will need to continue improving their defensive line, especially in terms of getting pressure on the quarterback. Ohio State has historically had a strong pass rush, and bolstering this unit will be essential in their pursuit of a national championship.
Recruiting and Key Players for 2025
As of January 2025, Ohio State’s recruiting class looks strong, with commitments from several highly ranked players, including elite offensive linemen, cornerbacks, and running backs. If these players live up to their potential, they will help solidify the Buckeyes as one of the top teams in the nation in 2025.
Ohio State’s ability to recruit high-level players, particularly in critical positions like quarterback and defensive line, will be essential for their 2025 roster construction. If they can maintain their strong recruiting efforts, there is little doubt that Ohio State will remain a title contender.
Furthermore, the transfer portal continues to be a factor in college football, and Ohio State has been successful in attracting high-impact players through this avenue. If the Buckeyes can bring in the right transfers to fill any gaps, particularly in the secondary or on the defensive line, their chances of competing for a national title in 2025 will increase dramatically.
