College Football Preview - Alabama Crimson Tide

Running back Derrick Henry entered the 2014 season ready to lead Alabama's offense after a learning-curve freshman year. The former national player of the year who set a career rushing yards record in high school brought rare size and speed to the Crimson Tide backfield.

Freshman defensive end Da'Shawn Hand, the highest-rated recruit in the previous signing class, added depth to an already talented defensive line. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 250 pounds, Hand arrived with impressive accolades but remained focused on improving and earning playing time under coach Nick Saban.