TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Alabama's defense is still dominating even with last year's biggest stars now in the NFL.
The top-ranked Crimson Tide leads the nation in run, pass, scoring and total defense - just like last season. In fact the numbers are a little better in each of those categories despite losing three first-round draft picks and four other starters.
Now, Alabama's defense faces its biggest challenge with Saturday night's visit to Tyler Bray and Tennessee.
Defensive end Damion Square says the Tide is doing so well because of how the replacements for stars like Dont'a Hightower and Mark Barron have played.
Tide coach Nick Saban says this defense has been a hard-working group.
Alabama is giving up 7.5 points and 181.1 yards per game and allowed just 3 rushing yards to Missouri.
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