In 2024, Alabama football faced offensive challenges, overshadowing Kane Wommack’s commendable efforts with the defense. Despite the bitter taste left by the loss to Vanderbilt, another metric highlights Alabama’s defensive prowess last season, raising hopes for an even stronger defense in 2025.
ESPN’s recent post ranked college football teams by stop rate, a measure of defensive success where a stop occurs through a punt, turnover, or turnover on downs. Wommack’s defense ranked 8th nationally, achieving stops on 72.7% of opponent possessions. This placed Alabama fourth in the SEC, ahead of powerhouse programs like Georgia, which surprisingly ranked 67th. Alabama also allowed just 1.34 points per drive, tying with Notre Dame for fifth in the country. They finished 10th in yards-per-play and 9th in points-per-game, solidifying Wommack’s successful first season as defensive coordinator.
Despite a roster filled with underclassmen and the absence of a standout pass rusher, Alabama’s defense excelled. The departures of LB Jihaad Campbell and DB Malachi Moore are notable, but the return of experienced players like LT Overton, Tim Keenan, Deontae Lawson, Justin Jefferson, and Domani Jackson promises a deep and seasoned defense in 2025.
If a dominant pass rusher emerges, Alabama could boast the nation’s top defense. Overton, though skilled at penetrating the backfield, struggled to finish plays. Development in players like Qua Russaw and Yhonzae Pierre could significantly bolster the team’s defensive capabilities.
Wommack’s work has earned him recognition for elevating Alabama’s defense to elite status. If head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan can resolve offensive issues, particularly with a new quarterback, Alabama is poised to be a formidable contender in the coming season.
