Dallas Turner addresses importance of being a leader for Alabama

Dallas Turner is ready to step up and be the unquestioned leader of the Alabama Crimson Tide defense in 2023.

While the talent has always been there, the opening hasn’t, as Will Anderson led the way for Alabama since Turner’s arrival. However, with Anderson now in the NFL with the Houston Texans, it’s up to Turner to takeover his role, which he’s not shied away from yet.

“It’s a new generation of college football now. So you know, just like me having the experience that I have, playing as a freshman and stuff. Knowing what it takes, and knowing what it takes to get to where you want to be. I could just echo that,” explained Turner. Tell everybody, try to get everybody on the same page. Make sure everybody is ready to work for the season.”

Moreover, Turner is looking to continue to make good on his limitless potential, while taking his next step as a leader, as well. He recorded 10 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks during his freshman campaign. Numbers dropped just a tad during the 2022 season, going for 8.0 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks.

Time will tell if Dallas Turner can reach the heights of Will Anderson, but he’ll be damned if he doesn’t try. Nick Saban is certainly expecting a lot out of his, and the sky is the limit for the Crimson Tide if he can get there.

Dallas Turner claims Alabama defense has no limit

Continuing, Alabama did not play the brand of football they wanted to on defense last season. Nick Saban made a move at defensive coordinator, bringing Kevin Steele into the mix. He will replace Pete Golding, who has moved across state lines to work with Ole Miss. Folks in Tuscaloosa are excited to have Steele back in the program and hope to get back to dominant ways.

Just days before kickoff, the players are confident Alabama will get there. Dallas Turnersays there is “no limit” as to how good the Crimson Tide’s defense will be this season — not just because of football reasons either. Turner says everyone is clicking off the field too and at the right time.

“The defense has no limits to it this year,” Turner said. “From everything I am seeing from practice, the type of work we’re putting in. Just unity as one, the togetherness that we’re starting to have, the bond on and off the field. So, there’s no limit to how the defense can be good.”

Turner has been at Alabama for two seasons now and for the most part, he has been a really solid complementarily player. Will Anderson was the star of the show, especially during the 2021 season when he was a near Heisman Trophy finalist. But with Anderson now in Houston with the Texans, Turner has the opportunity to step into the limelight.

On3’s Griffin McVeigh contributed to this article.