Consistency: The Key Concern for Alabama's Offensive Line in Preseason Camp

Alabama football is only three practices into their preseason camp, but offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic has already identified a key area for improvement before the 2024 season kicks off.

“I would say there’s just a lack of consistency,” Kapilovic remarked to reporters on Saturday. “There are some really good aspects, but the battle with coaching the offensive line has always been about achieving consistency. Whether it's the elements, ourselves, or the defense, it’s all about being consistent.”

Despite this concern, Alabama is not trailing other teams significantly. With most of the month left to prepare before their game against Western Kentucky on August 31, the team has ample time to refine their performance.

The Tide is currently installing entirely new systems, a process that began during spring practice. The fresh offensive scheme favored by new head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan is still being implemented, necessitating ongoing adjustments.

Tyler Booker, an offensive guard and leader on the line, believes that consistency will develop as the season approaches.

“It’s just something that takes time,” Booker explained. “We have a lot of young guys on the offensive line. The more we practice and go through this fall camp, whether it's their first or second, the better they’ll adapt.”

Several new faces are expected to feature prominently on Alabama's offensive line. Parker Brailsford, a transfer from Washington who missed spring ball due to personal issues, is currently leading at center. Kadyn Proctor has returned from a brief stint with Iowa and is expected to take one of the tackle positions, with Elijah Pritchett and Wilkin Formby also receiving praise from the coaching staff.

Jaeden Roberts will return at guard opposite Booker, with Michigan State transfer Geno VanDeMark among the other new additions to the room.

Kapilovic emphasized that the search for consistency is a universal challenge for offensive line coaches.

“Every O-line coach is trying to build chemistry within the team,” Kapilovic said. “You’re also rotating players, so they need to get used to working together. In the heat, battling it out, it’s about mental toughness and everything that comes with it.”

A strong and consistent offensive line is crucial for Alabama’s ambitions this season. After struggling at times in 2023 before showing improvement, the team aims to start strong under DeBoer's leadership.

Sheridan sounded optimistic about the group’s progress after Saturday’s practice.

“We’re getting better every day,” Sheridan noted. “We took a step forward today and have improved daily. Coach Kap has done an excellent job building chemistry and brotherhood within the group. There’s still a lot of work ahead, but I’m excited about this group.”

Alabama will return to the practice field on Sunday.