2010 Alabama Defense - Nick Saban & Kirby Smart

The 2010 Alabama defense, under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban and defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, was an exceptional unit built on Saban's trademark defensive principles. Although Alabama had won the national championship in 2009, the 2010 season was a bit of a "rebuilding" year, as the defense had lost several key players to the NFL. Despite the loss of talent, Saban and Smart continued to field a defense that was among the best in the country, both in terms of scheme and execution.

The 3-4 defense was the base formation used by Alabama, which is Saban's preferred system. This scheme places three defensive linemen on the front line and four linebackers behind them, offering flexibility in both pass coverage and run defense. Saban and Smart often referred to it as a "multiple" 3-4, which means they could adjust the front depending on the opponent's personnel and tendencies. They often used a variety of looks, including a 4-2-5 (nickel) defense in passing situations.

The 2010 defense set the stage for the 2011 Alabama defense, which is considered one of the greatest in college football history. Saban and Smart’s defensive system continued to evolve, but the foundation laid in 2010 — discipline, versatility, and relentless preparation — remained constants. This defense, though young and rebuilding, helped Alabama maintain its reputation as one of the premier defensive teams in the nation.

Ultimately, Nick Saban and Kirby Smart’s defensive philosophy at Alabama in 2010 laid the groundwork for sustained excellence, and many of the players from that unit would go on to become NFL stars, helping cement Alabama's reputation as a defensive powerhouse.