Alabama football prepares for Kentucky defensive scheme under new staff

Alabama continues preparations for its upcoming matchup against Kentucky. The game follows significant staff turnover at Kentucky, where the defense is undergoing a transition. Jay Bateman has taken over as the defensive coordinator, marking a change in leadership following his previous tenure in College Station. Kentucky enters the game with a roster largely assembled through the transfer portal, contributing to uncertainty regarding their defensive identity for this meeting. Alabama coaching staff and players are currently evaluating how the new defensive personnel and schematic shifts will impact game planning. The team is adjusting its offensive approach to account for the personnel changes within the Kentucky unit. Both programs are working through early-season adjustments as the schedule progresses.

• 1:34 PMRoll Bama Roll — 2026 Alabama Football: Kentucky Defense Preview and Game Prediction - Roll 'Bama Roll