Alabama Crimson Tide: Brian Vogler
Spring evaluation: Passing game weapons 
May, 10, 2013
May 10
7:00
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By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
Editor's note: TideNation will use this week to look at the four major positions on the football field and how their outlook has changed post-spring practice. Today we examine the threats in the passing game:
Who's leading?
AJ McCarron is a happy man these days, and not just because he gets to drive the pace car at Talladega. The senior quarterback is smiling, in part, because of the number of weapons he'll have to work with this coming season.
Who's leading?
AJ McCarron is a happy man these days, and not just because he gets to drive the pace car at Talladega. The senior quarterback is smiling, in part, because of the number of weapons he'll have to work with this coming season.
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With spring practice complete and fall camp right around the corner, TideNation's power rankings return with a look at the top 10 Alabama players heading into the offseason.
1. QB AJ McCarron (Last ranking: 2): After three trips to the White House, there's not much that fazes McCarron. Even after two interceptions in the A-Day game, there wasn't an ounce of concern. "None," in his words, and at this point in his career there shouldn't be. His championship rings, his record-breaking stats and his talent speak for themselves. There might not be a more decorated quarterback in school history by the time he hangs it up.
2. ILB C.J. Mosley (3): It's one thing for a quarterback to play with a black jersey. It's another for a linebacker to do it. But a bum shoulder wouldn't slow Mosley down. The rising senior and leading tackler from last season played all spring with a shoulder harness and a no-contact jersey, yet he found a way to contribute. On Saturday, Mosley finished with a team-high nine "tackles" and, more impressively, caused and recovered a fumble on the same play.
3. LT Cyrus Kouandjio (NR): He's the rock, the anchor to a line replacing three starters. And if you're going to start over, it's nice to have a franchise left tackle like Kouandjio. The rising junior enters the season as arguably the most prized offensive linemen in the SEC. It's only a matter of time before he declares for the NFL draft and is taken near the top of the first round, so Tide fans should enjoy him while they can.
4. RB T.J. Yeldon (7): It's almost as though Yeldon was an afterthought as many fans clung to the untapped potential of early enrollee Derrick Henry this spring. It's typical of a talented team, though, as Yeldon, only a sophomore, is already taken for granted. It was only a year ago that he was the energizing rookie making fans forget about incumbent Eddie Lacy. Unoticed or not, Yeldon is a feature back worth his weight in gold.
1. QB AJ McCarron (Last ranking: 2): After three trips to the White House, there's not much that fazes McCarron. Even after two interceptions in the A-Day game, there wasn't an ounce of concern. "None," in his words, and at this point in his career there shouldn't be. His championship rings, his record-breaking stats and his talent speak for themselves. There might not be a more decorated quarterback in school history by the time he hangs it up.
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Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDespite an injury he has battled all spring, inside linebacker C.J. Mosley had no trouble making tackles and causing a fumble Saturday.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDespite an injury he has battled all spring, inside linebacker C.J. Mosley had no trouble making tackles and causing a fumble Saturday.3. LT Cyrus Kouandjio (NR): He's the rock, the anchor to a line replacing three starters. And if you're going to start over, it's nice to have a franchise left tackle like Kouandjio. The rising junior enters the season as arguably the most prized offensive linemen in the SEC. It's only a matter of time before he declares for the NFL draft and is taken near the top of the first round, so Tide fans should enjoy him while they can.
4. RB T.J. Yeldon (7): It's almost as though Yeldon was an afterthought as many fans clung to the untapped potential of early enrollee Derrick Henry this spring. It's typical of a talented team, though, as Yeldon, only a sophomore, is already taken for granted. It was only a year ago that he was the energizing rookie making fans forget about incumbent Eddie Lacy. Unoticed or not, Yeldon is a feature back worth his weight in gold.
Forecasting the Tide: Tight end/H-back
January, 10, 2013
Jan 10
6:00
AM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
Editor’s note: Every Tuesday and Thursday between now and national signing day, TideNation will review each position and look at who figures to start, who could rise up the depth chart and who might be on the way. Today we’ll look at the tight ends and H-backs.
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Tracking the Tide: Michael Williams
December, 20, 2012
12/20/12
6:00
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By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
Editor’s note: Each day between now and Alabama's date with Notre Dame in the BCS National Championship, we will review the season for a key Crimson Tide player or coach and attempt to project what’s next for him. Today we’ll look at tight end Michael Williams.
No. 89 Michael Williams
Tight end
21 receptions, 166 yards, 3 touchdowns
Role in 2012: Williams was the Crimson Tide's best and arguably only reliable option at tight end this season.
The good: The redshirt senior didn't jump off the screen, but he was consistent. As he has been his entire career since moving to offense, Williams was an above-average blocker with just enough skill in space to be a threat in the passing game. He was fourth on the team with 21 receptions for 166 yards and three touchdowns. But his worth is also measured in Alabama's success running the football. Both Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon were able to rush for 1,000 yards this season thanks in no small part to Williams' efforts.
The bad: Williams never developed into the receiving threat some might have hoped for when he transitioned from defensive end to tight end. Despite having the frame (6-foot-6, 269 pounds) and athleticism (coach Nick Saban touted his skills on the basketball court) that can cause matchup problems with both linebackers and defensive backs, Williams didn't become a weapon in the way of a poor man's Tony Gonzalez or Jason Witten.
Crystal ball: Because of his skill in the running game, Williams should find a home in the NFL. He's arguably one of the best blocking tight ends in all of college football, which is something scouts and general managers value when looking for backups. As far as the question of who will step up next year, the answer is wide open. Neither sophomores Harrison Jones or Brian Vogler have separated themselves this season. Redshirt freshman Malcolm Faciane has played and has a frame (6-foot-5, 259 pounds) to grow into. Another option might be moving wide receiver Marvin Shinn inside to tight end. The 6-foot-3 redshirt freshman would have to put on weight, but he already has played some snaps at the position early in the season. Keep an eye on two Alabama commitments to make an impact right away: O.J. Howard is the No. 2 tight end prospect in the country and Josh McNeil isn't far behind at No. 4 in the ESPN 150.
No. 89 Michael Williams
Tight end
21 receptions, 166 yards, 3 touchdowns
Role in 2012: Williams was the Crimson Tide's best and arguably only reliable option at tight end this season.
The good: The redshirt senior didn't jump off the screen, but he was consistent. As he has been his entire career since moving to offense, Williams was an above-average blocker with just enough skill in space to be a threat in the passing game. He was fourth on the team with 21 receptions for 166 yards and three touchdowns. But his worth is also measured in Alabama's success running the football. Both Eddie Lacy and T.J. Yeldon were able to rush for 1,000 yards this season thanks in no small part to Williams' efforts.
The bad: Williams never developed into the receiving threat some might have hoped for when he transitioned from defensive end to tight end. Despite having the frame (6-foot-6, 269 pounds) and athleticism (coach Nick Saban touted his skills on the basketball court) that can cause matchup problems with both linebackers and defensive backs, Williams didn't become a weapon in the way of a poor man's Tony Gonzalez or Jason Witten.
Crystal ball: Because of his skill in the running game, Williams should find a home in the NFL. He's arguably one of the best blocking tight ends in all of college football, which is something scouts and general managers value when looking for backups. As far as the question of who will step up next year, the answer is wide open. Neither sophomores Harrison Jones or Brian Vogler have separated themselves this season. Redshirt freshman Malcolm Faciane has played and has a frame (6-foot-5, 259 pounds) to grow into. Another option might be moving wide receiver Marvin Shinn inside to tight end. The 6-foot-3 redshirt freshman would have to put on weight, but he already has played some snaps at the position early in the season. Keep an eye on two Alabama commitments to make an impact right away: O.J. Howard is the No. 2 tight end prospect in the country and Josh McNeil isn't far behind at No. 4 in the ESPN 150.
Film study: Alabama vs. Georgia
December, 3, 2012
12/03/12
9:00
AM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
TUSCALOOSA, ALA. -- An analysis of three key plays in Alabama's 32-28 win over Georgia in Atlanta -- and what those plays mean moving forward for the Crimson Tide:
Black and Belue
The score: No score, 1:23 remaining in the first quarter
Black and Belue
The score: No score, 1:23 remaining in the first quarter
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Film study: Alabama vs. Western Carolina
November, 19, 2012
11/19/12
8:00
AM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
An analysis of three key plays in Alabama's 49-0 win over Western Carolina on Saturday at home -- and what those plays mean moving forward for the Crimson Tide:
Hitting the ground running
Dave Martin/Associated Press
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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- After 24 hours of digestion, analysis of No. 1 Alabama's 40-7 win over Florida Atlantic:
On offense ...
Doug Nussmeier absolutely gouged the FAU defense with crossing routes. The UA receivers showed their speed and ability to get yards after the catch on Saturday.
On offense ...
Doug Nussmeier absolutely gouged the FAU defense with crossing routes. The UA receivers showed their speed and ability to get yards after the catch on Saturday.
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Second look: Bama 52, Arkansas 0
September, 16, 2012
9/16/12
10:44
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By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
After 24 hours of digestion, analysis of No. 1 Alabama's 52-0 win over the Arkansas Razorbacks:
On defense ...
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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- After nearly 24 hours of digestion, analysis of No. 1 Alabama's 35-0 win over Western Kentucky in the home opener at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa:
- Alabama's offensive line was shaky. There were several negative plays on offense. They continue to get very good push in the running game, but pass protection is an issue. The pocket was poor all game. Of the six sacks on AJ McCarron, two were the quarterback's fault, one of which he held the ball just a split-second too long.
- Give the WKU defense credit, though. The Hilltoppers pressured the backfield with blitzes and misdirection all game.
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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The picture of the Crimson Tide, circa 2012, is coming into full view. On Tuesday afternoon, Alabama released its depth chart.
There were a couple surprises on the list, including Jalston Fowler and T.J. Yeldon sharing duties as the No. 2 tailback and Ed Stinson winning the second defensive end spot. True freshmen Denzel Devall and Geno Smith also won coveted backup roles at Jack and cornerback, respectively.
Quarterback
AJ McCarron, Jr.
Phillip Ely, RS Fr.
Running back
Eddie Lacy, Jr.
Jalston Folwer, Jr. -- OR -- T.J. Yeldon Fr.
Dee Hart, RS Fr.
Tight end/H
Michael Williams, RS Sr.
Brian Vogler, Soph.
There were a couple surprises on the list, including Jalston Fowler and T.J. Yeldon sharing duties as the No. 2 tailback and Ed Stinson winning the second defensive end spot. True freshmen Denzel Devall and Geno Smith also won coveted backup roles at Jack and cornerback, respectively.
Quarterback
AJ McCarron, Jr.
Phillip Ely, RS Fr.
Running back
Eddie Lacy, Jr.
Jalston Folwer, Jr. -- OR -- T.J. Yeldon Fr.
Dee Hart, RS Fr.
Tight end/H
Michael Williams, RS Sr.
Brian Vogler, Soph.
Alabama confident and confidential
August, 15, 2012
8/15/12
4:13
PM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Behind the green fence and inside the high walls of the indoor practice facility, there's something taking shape. The University of Alabama, fresh off a national championship in January, is tuning up for another run to the BCS in secret.
The Alabama defense lost three-quarters of its starters from a season ago, the offense its leading rusher and top three receivers. The new faces are familiar, yet unknown. A bevy of four- and five-star recruits appear to be ready to make an impact, but their roles are still a mystery.
Damion Square has seen what's coming, but like everyone around the program, the defensive end treats the matter as if it were information only accessible to those with the highest clearance. In other words, those drawing up the game plan to beat Michigan in Week 1.
"Some of these guys are a secret," Square said. "Some guys don't know exactly what we got over here at the university. They're kind of downplaying, but I know what we have and I know what it looks like. I know that we got something real special here."
When H-Back Brian Vogler walked into the media room on campus Wednesday, he brought up Michigan five times, all without giving so much as a hint of what to expect against the Wolverines.
"The things that we can do in the passing game are ... it's hard to explain," he said. "I guess you guys will see during Michigan."
The world will get its first glimpse of Alabama on Sept. 1 against the Wolverines. Preseason polls rank UA anywhere from No. 1 to No. 3. But with so many players gone from a year ago, the number of questions outnumber the number answers available, like who will start at safety, linebacker or defensive end? Who will start at receiver, H-Back or on special teams?
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Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDamion Square (92) said the depth for Alabama during preseason camp is impressive.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesDamion Square (92) said the depth for Alabama during preseason camp is impressive.Damion Square has seen what's coming, but like everyone around the program, the defensive end treats the matter as if it were information only accessible to those with the highest clearance. In other words, those drawing up the game plan to beat Michigan in Week 1.
"Some of these guys are a secret," Square said. "Some guys don't know exactly what we got over here at the university. They're kind of downplaying, but I know what we have and I know what it looks like. I know that we got something real special here."
When H-Back Brian Vogler walked into the media room on campus Wednesday, he brought up Michigan five times, all without giving so much as a hint of what to expect against the Wolverines.
"The things that we can do in the passing game are ... it's hard to explain," he said. "I guess you guys will see during Michigan."
The world will get its first glimpse of Alabama on Sept. 1 against the Wolverines. Preseason polls rank UA anywhere from No. 1 to No. 3. But with so many players gone from a year ago, the number of questions outnumber the number answers available, like who will start at safety, linebacker or defensive end? Who will start at receiver, H-Back or on special teams?
Notes: Jalston Fowler fitting in at H-Back
August, 13, 2012
8/13/12
3:50
PM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
Marvin Gentry/US PresswireAlabama's Jalston Fowler might make an impact at H-Back in 2012.TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- At the close of last season, running back Jalston Fowler could have reasonably expected to take more snaps on offense when he returned to the University of Alabama for his junior year. Trent Richardson was off for a career in the NFL and the No. 3 tailback on the depth chart was poised to rise to No. 2 behind Eddie Lacy, the presumed starter.
As it turns out, Fowler might take more snaps this season, just not at his usual position.
The 6-foot-1, 242-pound wrecking ball is changing one spot in the I-formation for another. Instead of dotting the "I", Fowler has been practicing leading the charge from the H-Back position. There's been no indication that he'll give up his running back duties altogether, but as tight end Michael Williams put it, he's too skilled to keep off the field when Lacy or another back is in the game.
"He's big. He's strong. He has good blocking skills. He can catch out of the backfield," Williams said. "He's somebody that can play running back also, but when he's not in there, as good as he is you don't want him coming off the field, so he helps us at H-Back."
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama practiced with a sense of enthusiasm or a double-dip on Friday . The Crimson Tide went to work in full pads in the morning and switched to shells for a night workout.
As reported yesterday, freshman receiver Chris Black is out for 3-4 months with a shoulder injury that will require surgery.
Here are some notes and observations from both the morning and night media viewing periods.
As reported yesterday, freshman receiver Chris Black is out for 3-4 months with a shoulder injury that will require surgery.
Here are some notes and observations from both the morning and night media viewing periods.
- Eddie Williams changed positions for the first time this fall. The No. 2 athlete in the ESPN 150 last year switched from receiver to defensive back on Friday. It's a curious move less than 24 hours after news of Black's injury. Williams is likely to play at safety in the secondary. With good size, speed and overall athleticism, he fits the position well. Williams stayed with the defensive backs for the second practice at night. Looks like the experiment might continue for a while.
- News of junior college transfer Travell Dixon decision to leave the program was unexpected, but judging by past practices it shouldn't have been. The 6-foot-1 cornerback had seemingly lost ground on players like Dee Milliner, Deion Belue and Jon Fulton. And with so many talented freshman pushing for a look, it would have been difficult for Dixon to find a place to play.
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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The Crimson Tide got to dip their toe in the water during Friday's start to fall camp. On Saturday, the heat picked up, as did the competition.
The veterans and newcomers, separated a day earlier, practiced together for the first time this fall. The only player missing in action is 2012 signee Brandon Hill. Coach Nick Saban has referenced one player who has not qualified yet, and Hill is the only absentee in the first two days of camp.
Here are a few other observations from Day 2 of fall camp:
The veterans and newcomers, separated a day earlier, practiced together for the first time this fall. The only player missing in action is 2012 signee Brandon Hill. Coach Nick Saban has referenced one player who has not qualified yet, and Hill is the only absentee in the first two days of camp.
Here are a few other observations from Day 2 of fall camp:
- Blake Sims continues to work at quarterback. Since Phillip Sims' transfer, the Tide have been looking for a No. 2 quarterback behind AJ McCarron. Sims worked alongside McCarron, Phillip Ely, Alec Morris and Dustin Ellison. Sims, who has spent time at running back and receiver since joining the Tide, has needed some help transitioning back under center. His release point seems to be a little off, causing him to throw behind on some passes, as are a few other technical details. Coach Doug Nussmeier will have his hands full trying to sort out the depth behind McCarron.
- As noted in yesterday's practice report, Morris already has the size to play the position. He's about an inch shorter than McCarron, but weighs a good 15 pounds more. He throws a good ball and looks comfortable under center.
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Bama's biggest players making big impact
April, 10, 2012
4/10/12
9:59
PM ET
By
Alex Scarborough | ESPN.com
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- When Brian Vogler, Adrian Hubbard and Barrett Jones are all in a room together, it looks more like a tryout for the Alabama basketball team than a meeting of football players. Each hovers above the press corps with the shortest man standing at 6-foot-5.
Shelby Daniel/Icon SMIAlabama's Barrett Jones is one of the Tide's big men who expect to make a big impact this season.But throw on a helmet and pads and the look seems to fit.
Jones has developed into one of the nation’s best offensive linemen in his fifth year at the Capstone, taking home the Outland Trophy last year. Now, Hubbard and Vogler are hoping to make a name for themselves as well, each on a different side of the ball.
Vogler has spent the spring flipping between H-back and tight end for offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier. It’s the redshirt sophomore’s first real opportunity to make an impact on the offense with the departure of Brad Smelley, and Vogler's not planning on letting it go by. At 6-foot-7, he may be a tad too tall for your typical H-back, but as long as he sees the field, he’ll be happy.
“Whatever looks best, they’ll keep on going with that,” Vogler said of switching back and forth between H-back and tight end. “Honestly, both (spots) feel great right now. ... They’re pretty similar, just a lot more moving around with H-back. I feel comfortable with both of them, so whatever one they choose to put me at will be fine with me.
Shelby Daniel/Icon SMIAlabama's Barrett Jones is one of the Tide's big men who expect to make a big impact this season.Jones has developed into one of the nation’s best offensive linemen in his fifth year at the Capstone, taking home the Outland Trophy last year. Now, Hubbard and Vogler are hoping to make a name for themselves as well, each on a different side of the ball.
Vogler has spent the spring flipping between H-back and tight end for offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier. It’s the redshirt sophomore’s first real opportunity to make an impact on the offense with the departure of Brad Smelley, and Vogler's not planning on letting it go by. At 6-foot-7, he may be a tad too tall for your typical H-back, but as long as he sees the field, he’ll be happy.
“Whatever looks best, they’ll keep on going with that,” Vogler said of switching back and forth between H-back and tight end. “Honestly, both (spots) feel great right now. ... They’re pretty similar, just a lot more moving around with H-back. I feel comfortable with both of them, so whatever one they choose to put me at will be fine with me.
ABOUT TIDE NATION
Greg Ostendorf
Greg Ostendorf joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering University of Alabama football and basketball recruiting at the Tuscaloosa News and Rivals.com. Ostendorf graduated from the University of Alabama and currently resides in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Email him at gsostendorf.espn@gmail.com.
Alex Scarborough
Alex Scarborough joined ESPN.com in 2012 after covering University of Alabama athletics and high school football for The Tuscaloosa News. He currently resides in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Email him at alexscarborough.espn@gmail.com.