The 2008 Alabama football season was a memorable one for the Crimson Tide and its fans. Under the guidance of Head Coach Nick Saban, the team showed significant improvement from the previous year, finishing with a 12-2 overall record and a 8-0 record in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). This marked a turning point in the program's history, setting the stage for future success.
One key factor contributing to the team's success was the talented roster, which included a mix of veteran leaders and young, up-and-coming players. Here's a look at the 2008 Alabama football roster, highlighting some of the key players who helped lead the team to glory:
Offense:
The offense was led by quarterback John Parker Wilson, who started all 14 games and threw for 2,273 yards and 10 touchdowns. Running back Glen Coffee was the team's leading rusher, carrying the ball 233 times for 1,337 yards and 10 touchdowns. Wide receivers Julio Jones and Marquis Maze were key contributors, combining for 73 receptions and 1,114 yards.
Defense:
The defense was the backbone of the team, allowing just 14.3 points per game and holding opponents to an average of 296.4 total yards per game. Linebacker Rolando McClain was a force to be reckoned with, recording 95 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and three sacks. Safety Rashad Johnson added 94 tackles, two interceptions, and five pass breakups.
Special Teams:
Kicker Leigh Tiffin was a key contributor on special teams, connecting on 20 of 29 field goal attempts and 51 of 51 extra point attempts. Punter P.J. Fitzgerald averaged 41.9 yards per punt, with 21 of his 63 punts being downed inside the opponent's 20-yard line.
Coaching Staff:
The coaching staff played a crucial role in the team's success, with Saban's leadership and guidance helping to shape the roster into a cohesive unit. Other key coaches included Defensive Coordinator Kirby Smart, Offensive Coordinator Jim McElwain, and Linebackers Coach James Willis.
Player Profiles:
Let's take a closer look at some of the key players on the 2008 Alabama football roster:
John Parker Wilson
Wilson was a three-year starter at quarterback, throwing for 4,222 yards and 22 touchdowns during his career. He was known for his accuracy and decision-making, and was a key leader on the team.
Glen Coffee
Coffee was a workhorse running back, carrying the ball 233 times for 1,337 yards and 10 touchdowns. He was known for his speed and agility, and was a key contributor to the team's success.
Julio Jones
Jones was a highly touted freshman wide receiver, catching 58 passes for 924 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was known for his speed and athleticism, and went on to have a successful NFL career.
Season Highlights:
The 2008 Alabama football season was filled with exciting moments, including:
- A 34-10 win over Clemson in the season opener
- A 41-30 win over Georgia, which marked the team's first SEC victory of the season
- A 27-21 win over LSU, which clinched the SEC West division title
- A 36-0 win over Auburn, which marked the team's first shutout of the season
- A 31-21 win over Florida in the SEC Championship game, which marked the team's first SEC title since 1999
Gallery of Alabama Football 2008
What was the final record of the 2008 Alabama football team?
+The 2008 Alabama football team finished with a 12-2 overall record and a 8-0 record in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Who was the quarterback for the 2008 Alabama football team?
+John Parker Wilson was the quarterback for the 2008 Alabama football team.
What was the name of the stadium where the 2008 Alabama football team played their home games?
+The 2008 Alabama football team played their home games at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
If you have any questions or comments about the 2008 Alabama football roster or the team's season, please leave them in the comments section below.