rbr opWith Reed and Robinson, along with key back-up D.J. Pettway, moving on, there will be some interesting shuffling along the line. Last year, Darren Lake was technically listed as the original starter at nose tackle, with Reed and Robinson as the ends. Obviously, Robinson typically played the nose while Allen actually was the starter at defensive end.
This year, I would expect Daron Payne to hold the role as the token starting nose tackle, with Allen at one defensive end and D'Shawn Hand and Dalvin Tomlinson battling for the other. However, Tomlinson will probably end up playing inside as a pass rushing defensive tackle more often than not, leaving Hand and Allen as the outside ends.
True freshman Kendell Jones will be in the mix for the nose tackle spot, while Raekwon Davis, Quinnen Williams, and JUCO transfer Jamar King will all look to use their unique styles to carve a specific niche along the line and garner meaningful playing time.
Final Home Midweek for Alabama Brings Samford to The Joe