Atlanta Showdown Part 3: FSU defensive front vs. Alabama O-Line

The Florida State defensive line

Florida State lost the leader of its defensive line with the departure of DeMarcus Walker, who was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft. But the Seminoles have recruited exceptionally well at that position, and this again should be one of the team strengths. FSU’s coaches will lean on junior Josh Sweat to become the leader of the defensive end group, especially if he can finally get through a season with no injury concerns. He will be joined by super sophomore Brian Burns, who led all freshmen nationally last season with 9.5 sacks, and a bunch of talented young pass-rushers. Senior Jacob Pugh also will see time there, as well as at outside linebacker in various packages.

The Seminoles are loaded at defensive tackle, with starters Derrick Nnadi and Demarcus Christmas back for another season, as well as a number of very experienced backups. Barring any major injury issues, FSU’s defensive line group could be among the deepest and strongest in the nation.

The Alabama offensive line

The Cam Robinson era is over for Alabama. After anchoring the left tackle spot for three straight seasons, Robinson, the Outland Trophy winner, is now in the NFL. Taking his spot will be 6-foot-5, 301-pound Jonah Williams, who will make the transition from right tackle entering his sophomore season.

While Williams seems to be capable of filling the void left behind by Robinson, the right side of Alabama’s line still has plenty of question marks. During spring camp, the Crimson Tide experimented with several combinations, shifting 6-4, 324-pound Lester Cotton, 6-7, 326-pound Matt Womack and 6-4, 350-pound Deonte Brown at the right guard and right tackle positions. Alabama did not deliver the push it needed in the ground game at times, though, and will need to improve on that heading into the season.