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Game 4: Alabama’s Defensive Outlook in 2025: Youth Replaces Star Power
Alabama’s defense in 2025 enters a new chapter after losing two of its most important contributors—Dallas Turner and Kool-Aid McKinstry—to the NFL. Turner was a disruptive force off the edge, anchoring the pass rush with elite speed and instincts. McKinstry, a veteran presence in the secondary, consistently shut down top receivers and gave the defense flexibility to blitz and play aggressively. With both gone, Alabama must replace not just talent but leadership and experience.
At inside linebacker, Deontae Lawson returns to provide stability and leadership. Lawson is the most proven piece of the Tide’s defensive core—smart, instinctive, and dependable in coverage and run support. He’ll be tasked with calling plays and guiding a unit that depends on younger, less-tested players to step into major roles.
The biggest question marks are on the edges, where Alabama will likely turn to Keon Keeley and Qua Russaw, two former 5-star recruits entering their second seasons. Keeley is a physically gifted pass rusher with great length and explosive first-step quickness. While he played sparingly as a freshman, his potential is obvious. Russaw, a compact and powerful edge defender, has drawn praise for his motor and strength but, like Keeley, has yet to prove himself as an every-down SEC player.
Both have the raw tools to become impact defenders, but they’ll face a steep learning curve, particularly in high-pressure road environments like Athens.
Maintaining discipline in run fits and managing responsibilities in complex blitz schemes will be essential for their growth.
Alabama’s 2025 defense is flush with talent but undeniably young in key spots. The potential is there for another dominant unit—especially if Keeley and Russaw develop quickly—but that outcome depends heavily on how fast the new starters adjust to full-time roles. For a team with championship aspirations, how the defense holds up in early-season challenges like Georgia could determine whether this is a rebuilding or breakthrough year.
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