Alabama is a college football powerhouse. The Crimson Tide has won over a dozen national championships in the past decade and has a storied history, including firsts and accomplishments. This year’s team is expected to be one of the most formidable in recent history. As the Offseason begins, here are a few things to look forward to.
First All-American
Alabama football players selected as All-Americans are recognized for their athletic ability and accomplishments on the field. The list comprises three types of honors: unanimous, consensus, and first team. Consensus honors are awarded to those players selected by at least three of five ad-based sports publications. Those outlets are Sporting News, The Week’s Sports, College Football News, Associated Press, and the Football Writers Association of America.
One of the most impressive statistics about Alabama football players is the number of unanimous selections. According to the NCAA’s record book, 39 players have been unanimously been selected at least once. That includes defenders Will Anderson Jr. and Woodrow Lowe, who have been honored on at least three occasions.
The first victory over Texas
The Alabama football team won its first game over Texas in nine meetings. After a sloppy performance in the first half, the Crimson Tide responded with a pair of clutch scoring drives in the fourth quarter to earn a 20-19 victory.
The win was also notable because it marked the end of an era for the Longhorns. Coach Mack Brown stepped down after the 2013 season, and three different head coaches have occupied the Texas throne in the last two years.
The Longhorns failed to score a touchdown on five red-zone trips in the game. But they put up three field goals in the second half to keep the game close.
The first victory over Auburn
If you are an Alabama fan, you know that this year’s Iron Bowl will be fascinating. It will feature Heisman trophy candidates, Ca,m Newton, and Trent Richardson. However, it will be the last meeting of the two schools for at least 40 years.
The first game between the Crimson Tide and Tigers occurred in Birmingham on February 22, 1893. Both teams played in what the schools considered the season’s final matchup.
Auburn beat the Tide 32-22. Although the game was a success, it was not the most memorable in a long line of Crimson Tide wins.
The first victory over Penn State
Alabama football has finally won its first victory over Penn State. The two programs are both perennial national powers. In addition, both have embraced a hard-nosed approach to football.
After an 0-3 start to their title defense, the Nittany Lions have turned it around. They’ve won eight of their last nine, including a 55-10 win over Rutgers. However, their loss to the Crimson Tide was the worst in a decade.
Alabama was out to a quick start, jumping to a 7-0 lead after the first quarter. The Crimson Tide then scored 18 points in the fourth quarter.
But the Nittany Lions regrouped, putting together four unanswered touchdowns. The last came in the final eight seconds of the game. In the end, the only blemish was a fumble that cost them the game.
The sixth title in 12 years
If you’ve been watching the football game at any level over the past 12 years, then you know that the Alabama Crimson Tide is one of the most talented teams in the country. The program has won 18 national championships since 1892. With a record of 11 wins and two losses, it’s not difficult to believe that the Tide has no shame in claiming its title.
Nick Saban, the current head coach of the Crimson Tide, has led the team to six national titles in his eight seasons at the helm. He’s also surpassed Paul “Bear” Bryant in the number of national titles earned by a college coach.
Offseason
As the offseason ends, Alabama football is readying itself for its biggest game of the year. The Crimson Tide will play the Sugar Bowl against Kansas State. This matchup will generate a lot of excitement for fans and players alike. In addition to the big game, the Crimson Tide will hold spring practices in March and April.
Nick Saban and the Alabama coaching staff will have their hands full preparing the new recruits for their SEC season. Fortunately, they have a slew of talented prep recruits to choose from.
Some of the newcomers will be making their debuts soon. One player, in particular, has taken the offseason seriously. Junior defensive back Malachi Moore has been working out in the weight room over the offseason and looks ready to contribute next year. He has made 61 total tackles in two seasons with the Crimson Tide and has one defensive touchdown and one fumble recovery to his credit.