Nick Saban updates JC Latham's progress, gives offensive tackle update

Offensive line has always been a staple of strength at Alabama, and this season there are some big shoes to fill at the offensive tackle position, as the Tide lost first team All-American and NFL first round draft pick Evan Neal. Many are expecting sophomore JC Latham to fill that role, and head coach Nick Saban talked about his progress this fall camp.

“He’s made a lot of progress, he’s a lot more confident, he’s very physical, I think he’s got a better understanding of what he’s supposed to do, why it’s important to do it that way, how he’s supposed to do it and he’s playing extremely well. I’m pleased with both tackles, so far in camp,” Saban said.

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Latham is a 6-foot-6, 325 pound product out of IMG Academy that was ranked the No. 1 player in the state of Florida, the No. 1 offensive tackle in the nation, and the No. 2 overall prospect in the 2021 class according to On3 Consensus. Latham got some valuable snaps in his freshman season last season, as he played in every game except for the SEC Championship versus Georgia and earned 104 snaps total for the season.

It’s definitely a promising sign that Saban is pleased with his tackle play during camp. The Crimson Tide gave up 41 sacks last season, second most in the SEC, and will definitely be looking to better protect their Heisman trophy winning quarterback Bryce Young. Hopefully for the Tide, Lathan can step up as a younger, talented player along with Vanderbilt transfer Tyler Steen.

Nick Saban identifies how Alabama’s offense can evolve in second year under Bill O’Brien

Alabama had one of the most explosive offensive attacks in the country last season with offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien calling the plays. As the former Houston Texans head coach heads into his second season with the Crimson Tide, head coach Nick Saban has high hopes for him and his offense.

“We’re really pleased to have the coaches that we have, we’re pleased to have Bill back again. It’s always a little bit of a transition when you come from the NFL to college, but he’s made that very well and I think this year we’ll even be better in terms of how he can implement the things that we do as a total offense, and the players, and utilization of the players, better understanding of who we have,” Saban said.

Saban believes that keeping their offense effective starts up front, and that the new coaching additions of Joe Cox and Eric Wolford could help get the most out of their blocking units. 

“We need to improve how we control the line of scrimmage, so it starts up front always on offense and I’m pleased with the addition of a couple coaches. Tight end coach, offensive line coach that we’ve been able to add that their new energy, enthusiasm, and ideas may enhance that development to some degree,” Saban said.