Paul Finebaum Expresses Concerns About Alabama Football Ahead of Crucial 2023 Season
Renowned sports analyst Paul Finebaum has opened up about his concerns surrounding the Alabama football team as they enter the crucial 2023 season. Finebaum, in a conversation with ESPN colleague Matt Barrie, highlighted the challenges facing Nick Saban’s squad. With Saban not getting any younger and the Georgia football program led by his protege Kirby Smart showing no signs of slowing down, the Crimson Tide face a pivotal season.
One of Finebaum’s main concerns is the recent departure of both offensive and defensive coordinators, which has left Alabama with several unanswered questions. Despite their exceptional talent and continued success in recruiting top prospects, Finebaum believes it’s time to assess the team’s current situation honestly.
While Finebaum does express confidence in Alabama’s prospects for the upcoming fall season, he challenges the notion that their previous season’s performance was as strong as some claim. In addition to losing two games on the last play, the team also won two games on the last play and another game within the final 45 seconds. This precarious margin for victory or defeat has left Finebaum questioning the team’s consistency and dominance.
One significant uncertainty for Alabama is the quarterback position, as it remains unsettled heading into the season. With new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees taking charge, it is difficult to predict what the Crimson Tide’s offense will look like. Rees, who previously worked at Notre Dame, will have to choose between quarterbacks Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, and newcomer Tyler Buchner, further complicating the decision-making process.
Finebaum’s analysis emphasizes that Alabama’s room for error has diminished over time. While they often dominated their opponents in the past, recent games against LSU, Tennessee, Texas, and Texas A&M have showcased their vulnerabilities. On the other hand, Georgia has consistently displayed a strong performance, overwhelming their rivals more often than not. This shift in the landscape of college football raises questions about the level of talent on the Crimson Tide roster.
Looking ahead, Finebaum predicts that Alabama may win at least one more national title before Saban eventually retires as one of the greatest head coaches in the sport’s history. However, he highlights that Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs are also poised to continue their success, with two national titles already under their belt. Time remains on Smart’s side, as he is still in his mid-40s.
For Alabama, the upcoming season hinges on key games against division rival LSU and a potential meeting with Georgia in the SEC Championship. Losing to LSU for the second year in a row could prevent the Crimson Tide from reaching the conference title game. Reaching the SEC Championship carries significant weight as it would silence many critics.
Ultimately, anything short of a College Football Playoff berth would be considered a disappointment for Alabama this season. The team faces challenges and uncertainties, but their history of success under Saban cannot be overlooked. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Crimson Tide, eagerly awaiting their performance on the field.
