ESPN.com Preseason Power Rankings

2. Alabama
Talent wasn't the problem for Alabama a year ago. Despite producing four first-round NFL draft picks, the Crimson Tide managed to lose three games. Their problem was putting together a complete game, something they didn't do until a 49-7 battering of Michigan State in their bowl game. Look for a more consistent version of the Tide in 2011. They're talented and deep in the defensive backfield and might be even better at linebacker, where Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw will prey upon opposing quarterbacks. Coach Nick Saban thinks he has two quarterbacks he can win with, AJ McCarron and Phillip Sims, and they're both going to have the luxury of turning around and handing it off to Trent Richardson, one of the most explosive runners in college football.
-- Chris Low, ESPN.com SEC blogger
Advertisement
ESPN Video
- 00:43
High schooler with Down syndrome sinks 3-pointer
Leslie County (Ky.) High School's Ethan Wolfe, who has Down syndrome, checks into the game and knocks down a 3-pointer.
- 02:04
Hurts surprises family with donation toward a new home
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts surprises a family, whose child is battling cancer, with a $30,000 donation to go toward a new home.
- 01:25
Ron Rivera rings the bell after final day of cancer treatment
Washington coach Ron Rivera receives an ovation as he walks down the hospital hallway to ring the bell after his final day of cancer treatment.


