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Under the Saban regime, there have been a few positions where you simply never have to worry about the quality of the starter, no matter how in experienced or thin: Running back, inside linebacker, and safeties all come to mind.
But a surprising area where Alabama has quietly flourished, despite turnover, is at right tackle. Since 2007, Alabama has sent four right tackles to the NFL: D.J. Fluker, Austin Shepherd, Dominick Jackson, and even Shula holdover, Marlon Davis. Three of those players would be named All-SEC, and D.J. FLuker would be an All-American in 2012.
On September 3rd, 2016 true freshman Jonah Williams stepped on to the stage versus No. 18 USC and then announced his arrival with devastating efficiency.
Jonah Williams will learn pad level & proper base with feet. Chance to be special if it happens. Great tech... https://t.co/y2Mk2RXApv
— Cole Cubelic (@colecubelic) September 7, 2016
Not one to shy away from making a block, it is not unusual to see Williams looking to make a play on defenders 20-, 30-, even 50 yards downfield.
Alabama RT Jonah Williams. 50 yards downfield. Hard not to appreciate that effort. https://t.co/PEaolsdjcL
— Cole Cubelic (@colecubelic) November 14, 2016
Jonah Williams has been an absolute rock in 2016, particularly with the rotating door at right guard.
He was rightly named a freshman All-American. But, it all started in Dallas, on a play where put two defenders on their backs. You knew Alabama had something special working with some special freshmen.
Roll Tide.