How Alabama’s thin LB group was strengthened for spring football through bowl practices

As Alabama prepares for its 2025 spring football season, one of the key areas of focus for head coach Nick Saban and his coaching staff will be the development of the linebacker group. Historically one of the most talented and consistent positions for Alabama, linebacker has often been a source of strength, providing leadership and playmaking ability in the heart of the Crimson Tide defense. However, heading into the 2025 season, the linebacker corps is thinner than usual, due to a combination of injuries, departures to the NFL, and a need for some of the younger players to step up.

Given the importance of the linebacker position in Alabama’s defensive scheme, which relies heavily on stopping the run and being versatile enough to cover tight ends, running backs, and even wide receivers, the development of this group in the offseason is critical. Alabama’s bowl practices offered a unique opportunity for the coaching staff to evaluate and strengthen this thin linebacker group, preparing them for the rigorous demands of the spring football season.

In this article, we will explore how Alabama’s linebacker group, which entered the bowl season with some question marks, was strengthened through focused practices and development. We’ll also look at the key players who stepped up, how the coaching staff maximized their bowl preparation, and what this means for the team as it heads into spring football.

Understanding Alabama’s Linebacker Situation Heading into the Bowl Game

At the conclusion of the 2024 regular season, Alabama’s linebacker group was facing some challenges. A few key players had departed for the NFL, leaving a void in leadership and talent. Moreover, injuries had taken their toll on the group, and Alabama was left with a thin, yet talented, pool of linebackers.

A major factor in this thinning out was the departure of several prominent players. Henry To’o To’o, a leader on the defense, declared for the NFL Draft, while Dallas Turner, an edge rusher who could drop into linebacker positions in certain packages, was expected to move into a more prominent pass-rushing role. The team also lost a few depth pieces to transfers and injuries, further complicating the linebacker situation.

With an already deep defensive backfield and a robust defensive line, the linebacker position stood out as one area that required attention during bowl practices. The coaching staff knew that the spring would present an opportunity for younger players to step up and fill the void, but the preparation for the bowl game was the perfect time to begin developing those players who could play critical roles in 2025.

Bowl Practices: The Crucial Preparation Period

Bowl practices are unique in that they serve a dual purpose: preparing for the upcoming bowl game while also setting the foundation for future seasons. This time is invaluable for developing younger players, refining skills, and creating a competitive environment where players can prove their worth.

For Alabama’s linebackers, the bowl practices took on an even greater significance. With limited depth, it was imperative for the coaching staff to get a long look at the younger linebackers who could potentially be called upon to fill the roles of the departed players. These practices were a chance for these players to get extra reps, refine their technique, and gain the experience necessary to play at a high level.

Coach Nick Saban, known for his emphasis on development and depth, used the bowl preparation period to evaluate the linebackers on both their physical and mental readiness. The coaches worked closely with both returning players and new faces, making sure they were ready to take on expanded roles as the spring season loomed.

Key Players Who Stepped Up During Bowl Practices

While the linebacker group was thin, several key players emerged during the bowl practices who could make an impact for Alabama in 2025. These players not only took on more responsibility during bowl preparation but also began to define themselves as key pieces of the defensive puzzle.

1. Jaylen Moody – A Veteran Leader

One of the most experienced linebackers on the roster heading into the 2025 season was Jaylen Moody. Moody had been a key contributor for Alabama in recent seasons, but with the departures of To’o To’o and other experienced players, the pressure was on Moody to step into a leadership role for the linebacker group.

During the bowl practices, Moody emerged as one of the standout performers. The senior linebacker demonstrated his ability to read plays quickly, communicate with teammates, and make key tackles in both run defense and pass coverage. His leadership in the huddle became increasingly important as the younger players around him began to adapt to the speed and complexity of Alabama’s defense.

Moody’s versatility also proved valuable in the bowl preparation. Known for his ability to play both inside and outside linebacker positions, Moody’s adaptability allowed the coaching staff to experiment with different defensive packages, ensuring that he would be ready for any role in the spring.

2. Deontae Lawson – The Rising Star

Another player who took full advantage of the bowl practices was Deontae Lawson. Lawson, a rising sophomore linebacker, had already shown flashes of potential in his freshman season but needed to refine his skills to become a more consistent contributor in 2025. During the bowl practices, Lawson showed tremendous growth, improving his awareness, coverage skills, and overall physicality.

Lawson’s ability to cover running backs and tight ends in space, a critical aspect of modern-day linebacker play, made him stand out as a player who could be leaned upon in the spring. The coaches were impressed with Lawson’s work ethic and his ability to step into a starting role, given his blend of size and athleticism. His development in the bowl practices will be one of the most important storylines heading into spring football.

3. The Freshman Sensation – Jeremiah Alexander

A major storyline during the bowl practices was the development of Jeremiah Alexander, one of the top incoming freshmen for Alabama in 2025. While Alexander primarily played edge rusher in high school, he was being groomed for a hybrid linebacker/defensive end role that would give Alabama added flexibility along the front seven.

During the bowl period, Alexander showcased his raw talent, speed, and explosiveness in practices. He quickly adapted to the linebacker position, impressing coaches with his ability to blitz, cover, and defend against the run. His transition from edge rusher to linebacker may take some time, but his performance in the bowl practices suggested he could be a difference-maker in 2025. Alexander’s physical tools were evident, and if he continues to develop, he could be a key player in the linebacker rotation.

4. Trezmen Marshall – The Transfer Who Could Contribute Immediately

Alabama also added a key transfer in Trezmen Marshall from Georgia, who provided much-needed experience to the linebacker group. Marshall was a starter at Georgia before transferring, bringing with him valuable SEC experience and leadership. During the bowl practices, Marshall’s poise, football IQ, and ability to adapt to Alabama’s defensive scheme stood out.

While still learning the nuances of the Alabama defense, Marshall’s ability to play downhill against the run and cover the passing game made him an intriguing option for the Crimson Tide. The bowl practices provided him with the opportunity to get acclimated to the system, and he made the most of it, showcasing his leadership and high-level playmaking ability.

Strengthening the Group through Bowl Practice Structure

Beyond individual performances, the way Alabama’s coaching staff structured the bowl practices was instrumental in strengthening the linebacker group. Coach Saban and his staff made sure to provide a mix of fundamental drills, situational practices, and live scrimmages to ensure that the linebackers were prepared for the challenges they would face in spring football.

1. Increasing Exposure to Game Situations

The bowl practices were critical in providing players with live-action scenarios where they could put their skills to the test. Alabama’s coaches emphasized simulated game situations, such as third-and-long pass coverage and short-yardage run defense. These practices gave the linebackers the opportunity to work on their reaction times, decision-making, and ability to execute under pressure.

In addition, the Crimson Tide focused on scrimmaging against both their offense and scout teams, allowing the linebackers to work on their communication and teamwork. The coaches stressed the importance of being able to quickly adjust to different offensive schemes, something that Alabama’s linebackers would need to do against the diverse offenses they’ll face in the SEC and beyond.

2. Position-Specific Coaching and Focus on Fundamentals

Another key element of bowl practice was position-specific coaching. While the team as a whole was preparing for the bowl game, Alabama’s linebackers were able to get more one-on-one attention from their position coaches. This allowed the staff to focus on refining the individual fundamentals that would be critical in the spring, such as tackling technique, footwork, and leverage in coverage.

The practice also included plenty of film study, where the linebackers could analyze their own performances as well as study opponents. This mental aspect of the game helped the players build a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities, allowing them to play faster and more efficiently.

Looking Ahead to Spring Football

As Alabama gears up for spring football, the development of the linebacker group during bowl practices will have lasting effects on the 2025 season. The combination of experienced veterans like Jaylen Moody and Trezmen Marshall, rising stars like Deontae Lawson, and newcomers like Jeremiah Alexander gives the Crimson Tide a lot of options moving forward. Alabama’s linebacker corps, though thin heading into the offseason, was strengthened significantly during the bowl practices, setting the stage for what could be an exciting and competitive spring football season.

The lessons learned, the experience gained, and the growth achieved in bowl preparation will be crucial as the team looks to solidify its defense for the upcoming season. If the coaching staff continues to develop the linebacker group effectively, Alabama will once again have one of the most formidable defenses in college football. The thin linebacker group that began the 2024 season will now be much stronger, setting Alabama up for success in the 2025 spring campaign and beyond.