Alabama’s defensive backfield has been a key strength for the team this season, and much of that success can be credited to the coaching efforts of Maurice Linguist and Colin Hitschler. As co-defensive coordinators and defensive back coaches, they’ve played a pivotal role in helping the secondary become one of the most formidable in college football. The Crimson Tide’s defensive backs have recorded 10 of the team’s 14 interceptions, with standout performances from players like Keon Sabb, Malachi Moore, Domani Jackson, and Bray Hubbard, each recording two picks. The secondary has also been productive in forcing turnovers, with five forced fumbles, including one by DaShawn Jones against Mercer, which freshman Zabien Brown returned for a touchdown.
Heading into Alabama’s road matchup against Oklahoma, Linguist and the cornerback unit are preparing for a unique challenge, as the Sooners have two capable quarterbacks in Jackson Arnold and Michael Hawkins. While Arnold is the starter and has thrown for 12 touchdowns this season, Hawkins is known for his dual-threat ability, making the preparation for both players critical. The challenge is further amplified by the fact that Oklahoma is fighting to become bowl-eligible, making them a dangerous opponent despite their record.
Linguist acknowledged that this matchup represents a different test for his group, especially with the potential for two quarterbacks to rotate in. “You do have to spend time on what has been on film,” Linguist explained. “Most teams now have 10 to 11 games of footage, so you’re going to get a lot of repeat plays. When you see two quarterbacks show up, obviously, we have to identify if the DNA of the offense changes with one guy over the other.” Linguist and his staff have studied how Oklahoma might approach the game depending on which quarterback is in, considering that Hawkins’ mobility could change how the offense operates compared to Arnold’s more traditional pocket-passing style.
This preparation is nothing new for Alabama’s secondary. Earlier in the season, they faced a similar scenario when Wisconsin started Tyler Van Dyke before his early exit due to injury, with backup Braedyn Locke finishing the game. In that instance, the Tide’s defense was able to control the game effectively, but Linguist knows Oklahoma will bring a different kind of test.
With a defense as talented as Alabama’s, the secondary is more than capable of handling the challenge. Linguist’s focus will be ensuring his players are ready for both quarterbacks, maintaining respect for each, and adjusting to whatever offensive strategy Oklahoma presents on Saturday. The road to a victory in Norman is tough, but the maturity and preparation of the Crimson Tide’s defensive backfield should help them rise to the occasion.
