re: That was the type of loss that changes a program 1 way or another

Bama is in a bit of trouble on the defensive side of the ball going into 2019. #28 looks like he might be able to handle a spot going forward and #2 as well. #21 showed nothing but hopefully one of the younger guys can take his spot. Diggs and Smith are just a bit better than average but in now way good so others need to take their spots as well. ILB is a collection of average play at best. 30 and 32 are the worst two ILB's Nick has had in years. They have a lot of hype but their play is average to below. The DL is really a problem and it is unclear who will be the answer. #99 is average. Unless Nick is able to really upgrade his defense then 2019 will find Bama having to score 35 to win games again which could happen. It will be a long long wait until Duke.