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How is Alabama football shaping up after Week 1 of spring practice? 7 Key Takeaways for the Crimson Tide

It’s the end of the first week of Alabama football’s spring practice, and the Crimson Tide is now on a break for spring break. With the University of Alabama out of session, the team will pause practices from March 10-14, resuming on March 18. After just three practices, the team has already gained some clarity on what it might look like come August 30, when it faces Florida State in the season opener.

As the Crimson Tide heads into the next phase of spring practice, here are seven major storylines to follow.

Quarterback Battle Still Ongoing

All eyes are on the quarterback competition, where Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell are vying for the top spot. Despite the intensity of the battle, head coach DeBoer remains unfazed, noting that the first few practices showed flashes of potential from all three players. While Simpson is viewed as the front-runner due to his experience, DeBoer emphasized that no decisions have been made yet. “There’s no rush to make anything official,” said DeBoer, reflecting the team’s approach to the situation. Based on early observations, the depth chart seems to be forming as: Simpson, Mack, then Russell.

Looking Toward 2025

Alabama’s coaching staff, including DeBoer, Grubb, and Wommack, has high expectations for the 2025 recruiting class. Players like Russell, offensive lineman Michael Carroll, and defensive back Dijon Lee have already earned considerable praise. With a tough 2025 opener against Florida State looming, experience will be crucial. Wommack even referred to the Tide’s efforts in the offseason as “the best recruiting job,” signaling how important veteran leadership will be in 2025.

Wide Receiver Group Is Becoming a Strength

Alabama’s receiving corps is shaping up to be one of the team’s stronger units. Ryan Williams and Germie Bernard have emerged as the top targets, but others like Isaiah Horton, Jalen Hale, Derek Meadows, and Lotzeir Brooks are also making strides. With a competitive quarterback battle still unfolding, there’s an increasing belief that the wide receiver room will be a key strength for the team moving into 2025.

Concerns on the Offensive Line

Alabama’s offensive line depth is being severely tested this spring. Due to injuries and absences, the Crimson Tide has had to make do with a patchwork unit. With Kadyn Proctor in a non-contact jersey and Wilkin Formby absent, Alabama has had to shuffle players like Jaeden Roberts and Parker Brailsford into prominent roles. Casey Poe has also been getting reps at right tackle, and true freshmen Jackson Lloyd and Mal Waldrep Jr. are pushing for playing time. While the spring is intended for development, it’s clear that Alabama’s offensive line depth is thin, and the team is feeling that pressure.

A Familiar Coaching Staff on Offense

The Alabama offensive coaching staff is back in action, and there’s an unmistakable comfort level between DeBoer, Grubb, Nick Sheridan, and JaMarcus Shephard. The group’s synergy has helped make play-calling look effortless, and it’s clear that the team isn’t expecting many changes in the offensive system. Grubb mentioned that it’s still DeBoer’s offense, with just a few “wrinkles” that he’s added. This stability among the coaching staff should give the Crimson Tide an edge as they navigate a high-profile quarterback competition.

Defensive Tackle Depth Is Thin

Much like the offensive line, Alabama’s interior defensive line is facing its own depth concerns. According to Wommack, this area of the team is one of the biggest “depth concerns” this spring. While Tim Keenan III and James Smith are set as starters, Alabama lacks proven depth behind them. Players like Edric Hill, Jeremiah Beaman, and Steve Mboumoua are stepping up, but many are unproven at the collegiate level. Kelby Collins and Jordan Renaud, both members of the Bandit position group, are also cross-training at defensive tackle. Wommack was clear: if the development doesn’t happen, Alabama will “address those needs in any way we need to.”

The Defense Appears Set – For the Most Part

Aside from a few question marks on the defensive line and at the Husky position, much of Alabama’s defense is already taking shape. While Deontae Lawson and Justin Jefferson are sidelined with injuries, both are expected to play significant roles at linebacker. Additionally, Nikhai Hill-Green, a Colorado transfer, has stepped in as a leader in a relatively inexperienced group. Keon Sabb, Domani Jackson, and James Smith round out a defense that seems relatively set heading into the season. But the depth behind these key starters is something that’s still in the works, with Alabama hoping to solidify that depth during these spring practices.

Stay tuned as Alabama continues to build its roster and prepares for the season opener against Florida State on August 30.

March 10, 2025
Two Jets All-Pros Likely to Miss Week 17 Game Against Bills

The New York Jets will need all the star power they can muster when facing Josh Allen and the AFC East champion Buffalo Bills this Sunday in Orchard Park.

Unfortunately, two key starters, one on each side of the ball, are likely to be unavailable. Wide receiver Davante Adams and cornerback Sauce Gardner have both been listed as non-participants for the second consecutive day.

The Jets did not practice on Wednesday, so the DNP status is merely an estimation, but neither Adams nor Gardner was active when the team resumed practice on Thursday in Florham Park.

Adams is a new addition to the injury report this week, dealing with a hip issue. In the Jets’ most recent game against the Los Angeles Rams on December 22, he played 67 of 69 offensive snaps.

Meanwhile, Gardner is struggling with a hamstring injury for the second time in a month. He was forced to leave early in the loss to the Rams and did not return.

Gardner had missed the December 8 game against the Miami Dolphins due to the hamstring, but he made a full return in the December 15 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, playing all 84 defensive snaps in that contest.

In addition, starting offensive linemen Alijah Vera-Tucker and Morgan Moses were also non-participants for the Jets. Starting slot cornerback Michael Carter II was upgraded to a limited status on Thursday.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who has been playing through an MCL injury, has been a full participant for two straight days.

More news…….

Garrett Wilson on Potential New Deal: “I Love the Jets,” but “Can’t Focus on That Right Now”

New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson isn’t focused on securing his long-term future at the moment.

“I don’t know, man,” Wilson said, according to ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “I just go about my day… wherever my feet are at. If they [extend my contract], that would be a blessing. It would be awesome. I love the Jets. At the end of the day, they were the ones that believed in me. But, yeah, I can’t be worrying about that. I have to go out and finish these three games the right way.”

Jets Videos@snyjets

“I love the Jets. At the end of the day, they were the ones that believed in me. I can’t be worrying about all that. Just going to finish these three games the right way.”<br><br>Garrett Wilson was asked if he would like to stay with the Jets long-term: <a href=”https://t.co/gEbJKyoamZ”>pic.twitter.com/gEbJKyoamZ</a>

Wilson is under contract with the team through the 2026 season and is eligible for an extension as soon as the upcoming offseason. However, his comments suggest that he may not be eager to commit to a new deal right away.

Cimini referenced a source who wouldn’t be surprised if the 2022 first-round pick asked for a trade in the near future.

Wilson had a standout rookie year, catching 83 passes for 1,103 yards and four touchdowns, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. However, despite high expectations following that breakout season, his progress has stalled, even with Aaron Rodgers back on the field this year.

The Jets’ recent struggles on the field might also be taking a toll on Wilson. During a 32-25 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 15, he was seen having a tense exchange with receivers coach Shawn Jefferson.

A recent article by The Athletic’s Zack Rosenblatt, Dianna Russini, and Michael Silver raised concerns about why a prominent player would want to stay with the Jets right now. The report largely placed the blame for the team’s dysfunction on owner Woody Johnson. One of the most notable revelations was the increasing influence of Johnson’s sons within the organization, including a reported incident where Johnson cited Jerry Jeudy’s Madden video game rating as a reason for opposing the acquisition of the veteran wide receiver.

In the NFL, players are motivated to secure long-term financial stability as quickly as possible, knowing that one injury can drastically reduce their earning potential. But for Wilson, the challenges and instability in New York since his arrival could cause him to reconsider his future with the team.

December 27, 2024
New York Jets Underperforming WR Identified as Potential Trade Target for Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys might gain an advantage from the New York Jets trading for Davante Adams.

Following their major trade for Davante Adams on Tuesday, the New York Jets may be considering a trade for Mike Williams. Given that Williams hasn’t met expectations and the Jets now boast a deep wide receiver lineup, trading him appears to be a sensible move. From his standpoint, he might also desire a change.

Williams has drawn negative attention during his brief time with the team, particularly after he slipped and contributed to an interception in the Week 6 loss to the Buffalo Bills. This incident has led many fans to call for his trade.

However, the interception wasn’t solely his fault; Aaron Rodgers delivered a poor pass, and while he criticized Williams for his route, he also needs to improve.

Currently on a one-year deal as he recovers from an ACL injury, Williams must demonstrate to NFL teams that he is worthy of a new contract. His current performance suggests he may not command a significant payday next offseason.

In terms of potential trade destinations, Scott Polacek of Bleacher Report highlighted the Dallas Cowboys as a team that could benefit from Williams. He noted, “He hasn’t been the same yet this season as he bounces back from the torn ACL that limited him to just three games in 2023, but a change of scenery could help. The Dallas Cowboys could also use a change after Sunday’s blowout 47-9 loss to the Detroit Lions.

They aren’t exactly loaded with proven options at wideout outside of CeeDee Lamb. Williams could be an ideal deep threat who could take advantage of the single coverage he would see basically any time he was on the field with opposing defenses focusing so much of their attention on slowing Lamb and accounting for tight end Jake Ferguson.”

Like the Jets, the Cowboys have struggled more than anticipated this season. Nevertheless, given their talent, it wouldn’t be surprising if they were able to turn things around. With a record of 3-3, the Cowboys remain just one game behind the first-place Washington Commanders in the NFC East.

When the Jets signed Williams in the offseason, they envisioned him as their WR2, but things haven’t unfolded as expected. A fresh start in Dallas might be exactly what he needs to revitalize his career, and the Cowboys could certainly use his assistance.

October 17, 2024
Incredible statistics show that Dan Quinn was propping up the Cowboys’ defense

Since Dan Quinn departed to coach the Commanders, the Dallas Cowboys’ defense has become one of the weakest in the NFL.

Dan Quinn joined the Dallas Cowboys in 2021, seeking a new beginning after being let go as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. Dallas was in dire need of a defensive overhaul and believed that the coach who limited Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos to eight points in Super Bowl XLVIII was the right choice for the task.

The collaboration proved to be highly successful for both parties. Under Quinn’s guidance, Dallas ranked in the top 10 for points allowed for three consecutive years, transforming a defense that struggled to create turnovers into one that thrived on them. He also managed to restore his reputation, becoming a sought-after candidate in offseason coaching searches.

To retain him, Jerry Jones had to make a significant financial commitment.

Despite Quinn’s achievements, there was a notable concern regarding run defense. The Cowboys frequently faced challenges against the run, which led to some anticipation when he accepted the head coaching position with the Washington Commanders and Mike Zimmer was brought in as his successor.

Zimmer, the defensive coordinator during the Cowboys’ last Super Bowl win in 1995, was expected to strengthen the run defense. Unfortunately, that hasn’t materialized, as they currently sit at the bottom of the NFL in run defense.

In contrast to Quinn, Zimmer isn’t compensating for his shortcomings in the ground game by excelling elsewhere. Instead, their defense has plummeted to one of the league’s worst, as noted by reporter Brittany Bowen. Consequently, it’s no surprise that Dallas ranks 30th in points allowed and 24th in total yardage.

Since DC Dan Quinn left the Cowboys

– 3-3 on the season.
– Worst run defense in the NFL.
– Most PPG allowed in the NFL.
– Allows the 24th most yards per game.
– Worst 4th down defense.
– given up 168 points in 6 games.
– 3 STRAIGHT BLOWOUT LOSSES AT HOME.

— Brittany Bowen (@__brittbrat_) October 17, 2024

However, it’s important to acknowledge that the problems extend beyond Zimmer. The Cowboys are also faltering offensively, particularly in their running game. As they approach Week 7, they find themselves last in the league with just 463 rushing yards and only two rushing touchdowns.

Additionally, they rank worst in the NFL for receiver separation, a fact Troy Aikman recently criticized. With their weak pass protection added to the mix, it’s hard to understand how they’ve managed to reach the bye week with a 3-3 record.

October 17, 2024
Texans Player Recognized by NFL Following Patriots Match

Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. is receiving accolades following his impressive performance against the New England Patriots in the team’s 41-21 victory.

Anderson was honored as the AFC Defensive Player of the Week after tallying eight tackles and three sacks in the game.

Other recipients of weekly awards included Baltimore Ravens star Derrick Henry, Indianapolis Colts punter Rigoberto Sanchez, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Sean Tucker, Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch, and Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet, who stepped in as a long snapper.

This marks the third time this season that a Texans player has earned a weekly award, following Ka’imi Fairbairn’s recognition as Special Teams Player of the Week in Weeks 2 and 5.

This is Anderson’s first career weekly award, and if he continues to perform like he did in Week 6, it likely won’t be his last.

Currently, Anderson has accumulated 19 tackles and 5.5 sacks this season, just 1.5 sacks away from matching his total from his rookie year.

He will aim to deliver another strong performance in Week 7 when the Texans face the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, with kickoff scheduled for 12 noon CT on Sunday.

For more updates on the Houston Texans throughout the season, stay tuned to TexansGameday.

October 16, 2024
5 key insights from the Texans’ decisive win against the Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — For the first time this season, the Houston Texans decisively defeated an opponent on Sunday, beating the New England Patriots 41-21.

This marked their first victory by more than a touchdown, though it arguably could have been even more significant.

That’s the nature of the NFL: games tend to be tight, and performances seldom flawless. The positive takeaway is that the Texans are 5-1 as they head into one of their most challenging phases of the season.

Here are five insights from the Texans’ win:

An efficient running game returns
Life without Nico Collins might not be so difficult after all.

The Texans demonstrated that effective running is key to winning without their top offensive threat. Joe Mixon, in his first game since Week 2, rushed for 102 yards on 13 carries, marking his second 100-yard game in three outings this season.

When Mixon performs well, the Texans’ offense becomes one of the most formidable in the league. He started slowly, gaining just 16 yards on his first nine carries, but his last four resulted in 86 yards, including a 59-yard run and a 20-yard touchdown.

Mixon credited the blocking for creating opportunities. “Without the linemen and fullbacks and receivers and tight ends being in sync… that doesn’t happen for me,” he said. “I’m just happy everybody trusted in the scheme and everybody’s technique.”

After missing three games due to an ankle injury, Mixon was eager to return, feeling he was playing at a high level before a hip-drop tackle sidelined him. His return came at a crucial moment for a team missing one of its key players.

Second-string running back Dameon Pierce, returning from injury, also shone, rushing for 76 yards on eight carries, including a remarkable 54-yard run in the fourth quarter, clocking in at 20.72 miles per hour, per NFL’s Next Gen stats. He primarily carried the load in the fourth quarter, giving Mixon a breather.

The duo of Pierce and Mixon could prove to be a potent combination.

Still some left on the table
After scoring touchdowns on their initial two drives, the Texans experienced a slowdown in the second quarter. They had four offensive possessions during that time: two ended in punts, one was a missed field goal by Ka’imi Fairbairn, and the last concluded with a C.J. Stroud interception after a pass deflected off tight end Dalton Schultz.

Realistically, the Texans could have scored 50 points against the Patriots, with some players suggesting 60. Before this game, the Patriots had allowed an average of 20.4 points per game, leaning on their defense throughout the season.

Despite a lackluster second quarter, the Texans’ offense had largely been effective. “We left some points on the board,” wide receiver Tank Dell noted. “And for us to have 41, knowing that we left points out there is big.”

Head Coach DeMeco Ryans commented on the team’s mindset, indicating they eased off in the second quarter. However, they rebounded in the second half, scoring 27 points. “During that second quarter I felt like we kind of took our foot off the gas,” Ryans said. “…we just had to make sure we got back to what we said we were going to do, and that’s execute.”

Defense forces turnovers
The Texans’ offense benefitted from a robust defensive showing. Prior to this game, Houston hadn’t forced a turnover since Week 2, but on Sunday, they created a season-high four turnovers, including two interceptions and two fumbles. This was pivotal, providing the offense with extra possessions and favorable field position, leading to 17 points off those turnovers.

The pressure on Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye was crucial; he faced pressure on 47.6% of his dropbacks, which affected his performance, resulting in a passer rating of 41.3 under duress. Edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. was instrumental, recording five pressures, three sacks, and eight tackles. This was his best game yet, complemented by a pass deflection that led to an interception by safety Eric Murray.

Danielle Hunter, who contributed a sack and forced fumble, motivated Anderson throughout the game. “He kept me composed, kept me grounded these last two weeks,” Anderson said of Hunter. “He kept saying it’s coming, it’s coming, keep chopping.”

Ryans sensed Anderson was poised for a big game during warmups, noting the intensity in Anderson’s eyes.

“He is getting better every week, and this is his best game by far,” Ryans added.

Injuries to watch
Heading into the upcoming road game against the Green Bay Packers, the Texans face some injury concerns. Linebacker Henry To’oTo’o entered concussion protocol late in the game, while Azeez Al-Shaair did not finish due to a knee issue.

“He tried to come back,” Ryans said regarding Al-Shaair. “We’ll see how he progresses throughout the week.” Both players are crucial to the defense, which raises concerns. Linebackers Neville Hewitt and Jake Hansen are next in line, with Hewitt recording six tackles on Sunday.

Left tackle Laremy Tunsil aggravated a previous ankle sprain, requiring rookie Blake Fisher to step in.

Denico Autry eligible to return
Denico Autry, who was suspended for the first six games of the season due to a positive test for a banned substance, is eligible to return to the team on Monday. His addition is expected to significantly bolster the defense, as he recorded 11 sacks last season, playing both edge rusher and defensive tackle.

October 14, 2024
New York Yankees Prepare to Play Guardians in ALCS

A day prior to the ALCS, the Yankees have chosen their Game 1 starter.

If the New York Yankees want to make it to their first World Series in fifteen years, they will need to make some Clevelanders scowl.

The Cleveland Guardians defeated the Detroit Tigers 7-3 on Saturday afternoon in Game 5 of the 2017 American League Division Series, securing the opportunity to play the Yankees in the Championship Series, which begins Monday in The Bronx (7:37 p.m. ET, TBS/TruTV).

In Saturday’s decisive game, Cleveland scored five runs against Detroit ace Tarik Skubal (L, 1-1), with all but one of those runs coming from Lane Thomas’ grand slam in the fifth inning, which secured a lasting lead. Thomas added another run with an infield single in the seventh after the Tigers had narrowed the deficit in the previous two innings.

The Yankees are preparing for their seventh postseason encounter with the Cleveland franchise, and their second since the team adopted the Guardians name, following their victory in the 2022 ALDS in five games.

Cleveland, with a 2-4 record against the Yankees in the previous six series, will now become New York’s most frequent American League playoff opponent, surpassing the Minnesota Twins. The Guardians are also tied as the Yankees’ second-most common postseason adversary overall, alongside the San Francisco Giants.

This will mark the second ALCS confrontation between New York and Cleveland, with the Yankees winning the previous matchup in six games during their 1998 World Series title run. The then-Indians surprisingly took a 2-1 series lead before losing the final three games, starting with a standout performance from Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez in Game 4.

This year, the Yankees won four of their six meetings against Cleveland, taking two series at both Yankee Stadium and Progressive Field. They began with a doubleheader sweep on April 13 in Cleveland and then won the final two games on August 21-22 in The Bronx by a combined score of 14-1.

According to Bryan Hoch of *MLB.com*, the Yankees have not yet announced a starter for Monday’s opener, but Gerrit Cole (1-0, 3.00 ERA this postseason) is expected to pitch Game 2 on Tuesday. Cole last faced the Guardians on August 22, where he threw six shutout innings, allowing only one hit and walking five in a 6-0 victory.

October 13, 2024