Nick Saban explains why Crimson Tide have to play excellent defense against Devon Achane

Alabama claimed the No. 1 ranking after demolishing Arkansas 49-26 on Saturday.

The Tide defense was key in the win over the Razorbacks, with some analysts arguing the Tide defense is the best it’s been in several years. Alabama’s defense leads the conference in rush defense, outscoring opponents at home 173-10. In their contest against Arkansas, the Tide held the Razorbacks to under 4 yards per rush and less than 6 yards per pass.

This Saturday the Tide face Texas A&M, and according to Alabama head coach Nick Saban, the Tide defense must once again be on their game.

Saban praised Texas A&M’s Devon Achane, saying the running back is the reason the Alabama defense must produce.

Saban on Texas A&M RB Devon Achane: "He's very elusive. He's got great speed. He's a great returner on kickoff return. If this guy gets in space, he's got a burst, so you've gotta do a great job of playing team defense against guys like that."

— Charlie Potter (@Charlie_Potter) October 5, 2022

Achane led the SEC and was top-11 in the country in yards per attempt with 7.0 last season. He was second on the team in rushing with 910 yards, and led the team with 11 total touchdowns, including at least one as a rusher, returner and receiver.