Ryan Grubb Gives Praise to Running Back Room Following Monday’s Practice

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Alabama had its fifth practice of fall camp on Monday at the Thomas Drew Practice Facility. Following the practice, Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb spoke with the media to give updates on the offense and practice so far. Grubb praised the entire offense, but one particular room stood out: the running backs.

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"I'm glad you asked that today. I thought we had some really, really good runs today. A couple pops on some cutback lanes," Grubb said on Monday morning. "Guys got their shoulders square. Daniel [Hill] had a nice one. TB [Trae'shawn Brown] had another good one. AK Dear had a touchdown on a rail route. It was a competitive day for the running backs, so I felt like it was coming from all different directions. Everybody was showing up and doing a really good job. So I think that the competition, you know, has held strong. Those guys are, I think, that's one of the biggest parts right now is the guys feeling that level of competition in the room."

Sophomore AK Dear received more praise from Grubb. He mentioned the maturity and steps Dear has taken between seasons. Dear appeared in five games last season, with his two highlight games coming in week two against ULM, sporting five carries for 76 yards and one touchdown, and week 13 against Eastern Illinois running for 45 yards and two scores on nine carries.

"Maturity. And I mean that. I can remember being right out here in the Fourth Quarter with him and just the things that he thought were possible at that time compared to what he thinks possible now is very different. So I think he's a great teammate. You know, he's a guy that can lighten the mood, spark guys a little bit, and that's been something that has been really enjoyable. But also, you know, just being a better football player. Like AK, understanding protections was one of the issues of getting on the field, and he's come a long way."

Grubb seems to have high hopes for the run game, which fell by the wayside last year. A revamped offensive line and improved run game are among the big questions surrounding the Crimson Tide as they rapidly approach the start of the regular season.

Ryan Bond is an intern for Tide 100.9 with an avid interest in college football and college basketball. To keep up with Ryan, follow him on X at @Ryanb5172