Righting the ship-it ain't easy or pretty or quick

I still believe in CKD and that he can win at Bama. I do think he's finding winning here is a different animal than winning in the PAC 12. He CAN still win here but the problems are deep and can't be fixed this season.

First, NIL has and is deeply hurting the game. Many players have a really crappy attitude because of it now. Some of them have become lazy and don't care, as long as they get paid. This is not unique to Alabama. It's everywhere, more or less.

DeBoer is going to have to figure out a way to be supportive of players getting paid and at the same time, make it clear, if you aren't coachable and don't really want to be here, there's the door. I don't care who it is. The ones with a bad attitude have got to go. Period.

The staff needs to really, really look at a recruits attitude, character, behavior and coachability. I don't care how good that kid is, if he fails in those characteristics, Bama needs to pass.

Second, this Spring, everyone and I do mean everyone needs to know their starting job isn't safe. Make them earn those starting spots and make it abundantly clear that sh*tty attitudes and mouthing off to the couaches will not be tolerated. No more half hearted effort. No more jogging around.

This Spring, there needs to be a massive emphasis on fundamentals, tackling, blocking, catching the ball and playing hard until the whistle blows. It just seemed like Bama is lacking with that this year.

Third, the S&C program needs to be re-vamped. Too many players looking fat and out of shape.

Fourth, I suspect at least a dozen players will hit the portal. I'd like to see CKD aggressively recruit from the portal. That doesn't mean take guys that aren't good or have a terrible attitude but if there are good players with a good attitude, hell yes, do what it takes to sign them. I think we DESPERATELY need some good defensive linemen.

Fifth, I hope CKD makes it abundantly clear that the players don't get to pick who the QB is and if they don't get their way and mail it in as a show of their displeasure, they WILL be benched. I'd like to see CKD channel his inner Gene Stallings and tell guys who aren't trying, "If you don't want to try, I can assure you there are guys on the second team who would be more than happy to take your spot."

Finally, the staff itself. I've been less than impressed with Sheridan and Wommack as coordinators. I'd let them know their jobs are on the line next season. There HAS to be improvement. Period.

Sorry for the rant and being so long but like I said, these problems aren't easy or quick fixes. It can be done and it's probably going to be painful but better to do it now rather than 2 years from now.