We’re just beyond the midpoint of the season, so naturally it’s time to ask: How has Alabama performed on the midterm?

Well, preseason expectations were insanely high. Alabama was ranked No. 1 before the season began, and with such lofty expectations, a team can remain at No. 1 (see 2013 — No. 1 throughout the season, fell out following loss in final regularly scheduled game), lose a single game and still hang around in the championship picture (see 2012) or lose once and lose again and be eliminated from championship contention.

At the moment, Alabama remains No. 1, although major tests remain against SEC foes Texas A&M, LSU and Auburn.

OFFENSE

On this side of the ball, Alabama has performed slightly better than expected. The passing game hasn’t been as lethal as might have been expected, although Cooper Bateman was viewed as the frontrunner to win the quarterback job. He began the season as the No. 3 quarterback. With true freshman Jalen Hurts firmly entrenched as the starting quarterback, Alabama received a boost in the running game. The passing game is still a work in progress.

Some were concerned with the lack of experience in the backfield, although Damien Harris has alleviated those fears, Joshua Jacobs has come on unexpectedly as the No. 2 option and while Bo Scarbrough struggled initially, it appears as though he’s turned the corner. Hurts is the team’s second leading rusher. Alabama is currently averaging 45.4 points per game. Just for perspective, the 2012 championship team averaged 38.7 points per game.

DEFENSE

Defensively, Alabama has been pretty amazing in many respects. However, the defense is quite different under the direction of new defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt. Once known for being highly prepared under former defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, this season’s unit is more chaotic in both good and bad ways.

The team gave up at least 400 yards passing to Arkansas and Ole Miss and gave up big plays to both those teams. However, the defense has been incredibly opportunistic as well, scoring nine defensive touchdowns and forcing 14 turnovers. So while Arkansas executed huge passing gains, Alabama also forced five turnovers, including a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown by Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Alabama’s secondary is still an area of concern moving forward, although the unit has consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks and the run defense is allowing a miniscule 63.9 rushing yards per game, best in the nation.

FRESHMAN CLASS

Alabama’s freshman class has exceeded expectations, which is a lot considering Alabama had the top recruiting class in the country, depending on which service performed the ranking. Hurts is the leader of the offense, Jacobs has become the second option at running back and Jonah Williams is one of the top players on the offensive line.

Meanwhile, B.J. Emmons has 173 yards rushing and a touchdown, Trevon Diggs has seven receptions at wide receiver and linebacker Mack Wilson caught a 1-yard touchdown.

Shyheim Carter, Raekwon Davis, Miller Forristall and T.J. Simmons have contributed or seen time on special teams.

RETURNING STARS

Alabama’s returning stars have mostly met expectations. Reuben Foster leads the team with 41 tackles while delivering some of the most violent hits, Jonathan Allen and Tim Williams are showing they possess multiple skills and Eddie Jackson continues to be a leader in the secondary.

Left tackle Cam Robinson continues to be the best player on the offensive line, and Calvin Ridley is the team’s leading receiver. ArDarius Stewart has missed several games due to injury, but he has been a veteran leader and strong when able to play in games.

O.J. Howard hasn’t put up the numbers fans hoped for after an incredible performance last year in the national championship. Howard had two touchdowns and 208 receiving yards in that single game, while he has just one touchdown catch and 209 receiving yards for the season this year.

However, the team as a whole is exceeding preseason expectations considering the question marks at quarterback and running back as well as depth on defense. The team has left no room for concern in any of those areas.