All the attention was on Alabama’s offensive line in the opener against East Carolina, and the group gave the Crimson Tide enough to build on.
It wasn’t flawless, and there’s still plenty to sort out, but the signs of progress were clear. In fact, it may be fair to say the line looked better than just solid. According to Pro Football Network, three Alabama starters graded out especially well in the win.
Jackson Lloyd posted a 91.1 grade, good for third among left tackles. Michael Carroll checked in at 89.4, the top mark among right guards. Jayvin James earned an 85.7 grade, which placed him sixth among qualified right tackles.
That pair on the right side stood out most. Carroll and James looked comfortable working together, and the Crimson Tide’s right edge appeared to be the strength of the unit.
Carroll, a sophomore, has the look of a possible All-American. James, making his Alabama debut, handled himself well.
Their blocks helped create the opening on Trae'shawn Brown’s long touchdown run, though the play was wiped out by a questionable hold on Racin Delgatty.
James entered camp in a battle with Texas transfer Nick Brooks for the right tackle job, and there was some concern that spot could become Alabama’s weak link. For at least one game, he answered that challenge. Bigger tests are still ahead.
Lloyd also drew some criticism from fans on social media, but that reaction mostly missed what was happening on the field. For a first start, he played well.
The issues were more obvious at center and left guard. Delgatty was pushed back too often early before settling in as the game wore on.
Will Sanders had a rough start and was eventually replaced by sophomore Mal Waldrep. Waldrep played 44 snaps, while Sanders logged 30, and that competition is still very much alive.
Even with those rough patches, Alabama left Week 1 with real reasons to feel better about the front five. The group looks improved from last season, and there’s a good chance it keeps getting better as the reps pile up. Offensive lines need time to mesh, and live game action is what makes that happen.
One early takeaway is already clear: the constant shuffling from last season doesn’t appear to be the plan this year, unless injuries force it. Alabama looks set on keeping a more consistent five on the field. Left guard is still the spot to watch, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if Waldrep gets the nod next week in Lexington.
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