Nick Saban assesses the play of Tim Smith, Jamil Burroughs ahead of Utah State opener

Alabama coach Nick Saban is hoping to see more out of defensive linemen Tim Smith and Jamil Burroughs in 2022. Although neither player saw significant playing time a year ago, both are expected to see their roles expand this season.

Smith is listed as a starter according to the Crimson Tide’s Week 1 depth chart, while Burroughs is his backup. Asked about the progress both have made this offseason, Saban was complimentary of both while also remaining realistic.

“Tim Smith has done a really, really good job,” Saban said Wednesday. “He’s had a really good fall camp and has played really well. Jamil Burroughs had a great spring. I think both guys have to go out there and show that they can compete and be consistent in doing their job. Not make mental errors, be disciplined in the way they play up front.

“We think both guys can make a significant contribution. But like all players, especially those that don’t have a lot of experience, it’s interesting to see how they respond when they get in a competitive situation.”

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A former four-star recruit, Smith ranked as the No. 45 overall player and No. 7 defensive lineman in the 2020 class according to On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average. He appeared in all 15 games, making two starts to finish the season with 24 tackles (four for loss) and 0.5 sacks.

Burroughs, the No. 317 player and No. 37 defensive lineman in the same class, saw even less time than Smith. He played in only three games this past season, recording two tackles and one sack.

Last season, the Crimson Tide ranked second in the SEC (only behind Georgia) and fourth in the nation in run defense, allowing just 82.8 yards on the ground per game. The defensive line played a big part in that, but loses Phidarian Mathis (53 tackles, nine sacks) from a year ago.

That’s where Tim Smith and Jamil Burroughs come in, as they and the rest of the defensive line will look to keep the group among the best in the country. Alabama is scheduled to kick off the season at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday in Tuscaloosa against Utah State.