Alabama Football: 5 reasons the Crimson Tide will win the SEC in 2017

Alabama Football: 5 reasons the Crimson Tide will win the SEC again

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Bo Scarbrough (9) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Damien Harris (34) runs the ball during the first quarter of the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Running back depth

Alabama has an embarrassment of riches at the running back position. Is there any other school that can say they have four five-star running backs? Last season, three seemed a lot. True freshman Brian Robinson is a four-star recruit.

Given the injuries Bo Scarbrough has endured, and the injuries sustained by the running backs as a unit last season, having a surplus is a big advantage. However, not many teams are afforded such an advantage.

Assuming good health, Alabama will likely give the majority of carries to Damien Harris and Bo Scarbrough. Najee Harris will receive carries but probably a modest amount, similar to Derrick Henry in his true freshman season.

Next: Each SEC team's most important player for 2017

Sophomore B.J. Emmons rounds out the team’s five-star recruits. Emmons was plagued by injuries last season. He should receive some carries and will likely be given a bigger chance to make major contributions as a special teams returner—either kick or punt.

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