Alabama Legend John Hannah Critiques Offensive Line

Former Alabama legend John Hannah joined The Game with Ryan Fowler on Thursday afternoon, where he spoke on many topics in regards to Alabama football.

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The former offensive lineman had lots to say when he was asked about the current Alabama offensive line.

“Not very impressive, they’re average. I don’t see the ability of creating holes and I know [in] a lot of today’s offense, that’s not exactly what you need to do, but you need to create some cut back lanes anyway and you don’t see that happening,” said Hannah. “Early on I was really disappointed with all of the offside penalties, that’s just a lack of concentration, that’s nothing more than that. I don’t think they’ve had a great game yet.”

Hannah did have some glowing things to say about Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs while talking about the offensive line.

“In a way, he kind of reminds me of Ingram. He’s got that ability to stretch out that defensive line play and then finally when somebody does get a cut off block, he’s got the ability to cut back inside and go,” said Hannah. “I’m very impressed with him and if the offensive line would create those gaps in the defensive front, he would be even more productive than he is now.”

Hannah was also asked about the challenges of dealing with the run-pass-option game.

“That was created by some coach that never played, he doesn’t realize that an offensive lineman doesn’t have eyes in his ass,” said Hannah. “An offensive lineman basically blocks a spot, you can’t ask him just to hang on to somebody… trying to block somebody when you don’t know where he is or where he’s supposed to be to me sounds very confusing, I know I couldn’t do it.”

Hannah was an offensive lineman for the Crimson Tide from 1970-72, where he earned All-American honors. Hannah was also named to The University of Alabama All-Century Team and the Alabama 1970s All-Decade Team. Hannah was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

Professionally, Hannah spent several seasons with the New England Patriots where he earned several All-Pro honors and multiple Pro Bowl appearances. Hannah’s jersey was ultimately retired by the Patriots.

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