Mark Sears Silences Auburn & A Look Ahead to the 2025 Alabama Defense
Mark Sears walked into Neville Arena with one goal—shut the crowd up. And that’s exactly what he did. With Alabama down six late in the second half, Sears took over. A deep three over Johni Broome? Cash. A drive into the lane, drawing contact, and finishing off the glass? Easy money. Then, with under a minute to go, he hit the dagger—a pull-up triple that sent the Auburn faithful into stunned silence. Final score: Alabama 84, Auburn 80.
The Iron Bowl of Basketball had its villain, and Sears embraced it. As the final buzzer sounded, he raised a finger to his lips, soaking in the fury of the home crowd. The Tide had swept Auburn, and Alabama fans knew exactly who to thank.
The Future of Alabama’s Defense in 2025
While Sears’ heroics dominated headlines, the real monster is being built in Tuscaloosa—Nick Saban’s (or maybe Kalen DeBoer’s?) 2025 Alabama defense. With Dallas Turner and Kool-Aid McKinstry likely gone to the NFL, the Tide will reload with freakish athletes.
1. The Next Pass-Rush Nightmare
Keon Keeley and Yhonzae Pierre—remember those names. Keeley, the former five-star edge, has been waiting for his breakout moment. Pierre, a speed rusher with ridiculous bend, will be a nightmare for SEC tackles.
2. A Secondary With Bite
Caleb Downs is the leader of the defense, and he’s only getting better. Expect DeVonta Smith (the safety, not the receiver) to step up, while transfer portal additions could add even more depth. The 2025 secondary won’t just be good—it might be elite.
3. The Linebacker Corps Reloads
Deontae Lawson is back to anchor the middle, and if Jihaad Campbell takes the leap many expect, Alabama’s linebacker duo will be lethal.
The Controversy: Is Alabama Football in Decline?
Critics say Alabama’s dynasty is over. Georgia, Michigan, and even Texas are closing the gap. But if this year’s defense develops as expected, 2025 could be another championship-caliber season. Don’t count out the Tide just yet.
Mark Sears silenced Auburn on the court. Will Alabama’s defense silence its doubters in 2025?
