I'd like to start by saying I think we should shift the way we think about the team and the strategy used in college football. There aren't as many teams willing to pound the ball on the ground all night, only to realize Alabama isn't budging. It was only a few years ago that before games we'd say "stop the run, and as the game progresses Alabama will have their opponent pretty much chucking the ball in desperation trying to make SOMETHING happen." It was a fairly simple strategy that was damn near fool proof with the players Alabama has.

Those days are pretty much gone. And the mind blowing defensive stats we've been spoiled by are probably gone too. I'm pretty certain it's gonna be impossible to completely shut down these HUNH teams, but what should Alabama do to be more effective against it THIS season? We've all bitched about the CB play...so what should be done about it? Personel and scheme wise. And I read here that they looked better after going to a 4 man front later in the game....? What did that do to help? The linebackers will be a bit different after Trey gets back. They still HAVE to help keep the middle from being exploited. What's to be done about that?

It's somewhat of a new concept to think "oh man we HAVE to put some serious points on the board to win this one." At least it's new for me. For some of these games, that's exactly how it's gonna be. The offensive line really put my mind at ease in this department. It wasn't perfect but I think they have everything needed to be a dominant, game controlling line. With our QB situation, the offensive line is a MUST, and I think they have what it takes to, idk, help manage a game and keep some pressure off of Sims and Kiffin.

I'm just gonna assume that the receivers are good to go and a known commodity so that leaves the QB possition. I see a bit of concern with the ability to stretch the field. This might be false but I think the receivers take SOME of that concern away with their ability to make short throws into pretty nice gains. Huge pass plays would be great, but they'll get some with their ability after the catch. That still leaves the offense needing to keep the safeties honest and keep teams from always stacking the box. So, how would that be done with THIS team?

I saw that LSU had much more success when they would spread Wisconsin out, get them in nickel, and run against that formation. Will Alabama need to get more receivers on the field to get big pass plays? If Sims doesn't get better at throws over 15 yards, what will Alabama do to make up for that lack of production?

From what I've seen, I think Sims can be VERY productive if the coaches can figure out how to maximize his and the teams strengths. I'll be VERY disappointed if they keep doing what they're doing, find that he's serviceable at it, then use the same strategy against some of these really good defenses. I do not think he'll do well against them with yesterday's game plan.

We all semi joked about how it would be fun to see some designed runs. I'm thinking it's a necessity now. Don't force him to be Tom Brady dammit. He has a serious ability to move the ball with his legs, HELP HIM USE THAT ABILITY.

I couldn't be more excited to see how this team goes about dealing with this season. I just really think it's going to take a way different approach than we are used to. I'd like to see the coaches go all in, instead of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

(I didn't say anything about Coker bc I think Sims is and will be the guy all year. Don't think he brings anything different to the table other than his arm strength, and that's useless without accuracy and a good understanding of the offense.)

I know this is an extremely long post and is filled with rambling, but could y'all try to pick some parts and talk about them? I'm really interested in actual ways this team can get better and y'all's thoughts on what it will take. Yeah, we all know that "SYLVE SUCKED!!!" but getting down on guys and bitching has become tiresome to read.