3. Alabama needs consistency on offensive line
I think it’s safe to assume that we are going to see the old style of Alabama football this next season under Steve Sarkisian. That means that the offensive line will need to show progress in the running game and help protect Tua in the passing game. Hopes are high for the offense, but a lot will rely on a few changes on the offensive line.
The only player that we know for sure will stay at his position is Jedrick Wills at right tackle. The other four will see at least some change. The left tackle position will be opened due to Jonah Williams declaring for the NFL Draft. Because of this opening, Alex Leatherwood will shift from right guard to left tackle. This is his natural position, but that will open up a spot at right guard that Alabama will need to fill.
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You also have to replace Ross Pierschbacher, Alabama’s veteran center. No one left the job at left guard, but Deonte Brown will be suspended for the first four games of the season. It will be interesting to see how Nick Saban handles this, because I don’t think Brown will be handed the starting job as soon as he returns from suspension. That will depend on how the offensive line looks in those four games without him.
A familiar name that will probably start at right guard is Matt Womack. Womack is a veteran presence that will help the other new pieces on the offensive line. He’s not the greatest talent, but he will bring a lot of value to this team.
I expect Chris Owens to be the starter at center in Alabama’s first game against Duke and Emil Ekiyor will probably start at left guard. Once Brown is back, many of these positions could shuffle, including the three interior linemen.
The good news is that Alabama will have some time for the offense to gel before they have to play LSU and Auburn. As long as they are where they need to be once the season is approaching its end, all will be good for the Tide offensive line.