For the R3cord: Kevin Steele's experience will benefit Alabama's defense

Nick Saban felt like changes were needed at both coordinator spots this season. Time had run out on both Bill O’Brien and Pete Golding as Alabama needed to start fresh. On the defensive end, Kevin Steele wound up being Golding’s replacement, bringing a familiar face back to Tuscaloosa.

Steele enters the job with something Golding did not back in 2017 — experience. BOL‘s Tim Watts pointed out how Steele has been a defensive coordinator at multiple high-level programs, including Auburn, Clemson, LSU, Miami, and Tennessee. Golding was coming from UTSA and had to get himself up to speed.

“I think it’s the polar opposite of Pete,” Watts said when talking to On3’s Shannon Terry on For the R3cord. “Pete was a young guy, coming from a small school, didn’t have a lot of experience. Prideful guy. Kind of learning on the job. You know how young guys want to prove themselves. I think Saban had to work with him a decent amount, try to teach him the defense, try to get him where he wants to be.

“Kevin doesn’t need that. He’s been a head coach, a defensive coordinator. It’s probably easier to name the schools he hasn’t been the defensive coordinator at than the ones he has. He’s been everywhere.”

Saban will likely feel more comfortable with Steele running the defense. They worked together for two seasons when Saban originally took over the program. He returned in 2013 for a recruiting role before coaching linebackers in 2014.

“I think Kevin brings stability,” Watts said. “Might not be the new Nikes you bought but it’s those comfortable shoes you work in the yard in. I think Kevin brings a lot of experience and knowledge.”

On the field, Watts believes the linebacker play is going to drastically improve. On the inside, Alabama has lacked compared to its high standards. And on the outside, Kevin Steele has the chance to be a tad more aggressive, letting the likes of Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell really get after the quarterback.

“I think the first thing you’re going to see is better linebacker play,” Watts said. “I think that was the one very valid criticism Alabama fans had of Pete Golding. Bare in mind, he’s a defensive backs guy. But the linebackers probably didn’t have that play that Alabama fans are used to. I think Kevin is going to focus on that. Basics, aggression — I think you’re going to see all of that.”