Overview
- Early August fall camp saw offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb make reviving the run game the program’s top priority and say the staff will “resurrect” the ground attack.
- Grubb is simplifying play calls so players focus on one core set of strengths and has pointed to offensive line coach Adrian Klemm and tight ends coach Richard Owens as the technical fixes needed to improve run blocking.
- Third-year running back Daniel Hill is being presented as the lead back after an offseason physical change and work with trainer Brad Lester that trimmed his weight and boosted his agility.
- Freshman five-star EJ Crowell is being tracked as an explosive playmaker who still must learn the college game, while AK Dear, Kevin Riley and Trae'shawn Brown are competing for snaps in a crowded backfield.
- Alabama enters the season with promise but no game evidence yet, so the plan will be tested when the Crimson Tide open Sept. 5 at Bryant-Denny Stadium against East Carolina and could reshape the team’s identity if the run game returns to form.