2015 Alabama Predictions — Who Will Be the Team’s Defensive MVP?

As August approaches, the staff at Tide 99.1 is laying out its predictions on some of the bigger questions heading into Alabama's 2015 season. Next up: the defensive MVP. 

Most indications point the return of a stifling defense for Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. With one of the deepest front sevens in the conference, the Crimson Tide should quickly erase the memories of allowing 40+ points in two of its final three games.

But who will be the leader and MVP of this unit in 2015? Here is what we think:

Chris Stewart (Show Host) - Reggie Ragland's skill and leadership will put him front and center on one of the best defensive units in America.

Ryan Fowler (Show Host) - Easy pick is to go with Reggie Ragland, but I will take a gamble and go with Reuben Foster. If he can stay healthy, he can be a every down LB in Saban’s system. Plus, he can set the tone with his earth shaking hits.

Ryan McMunn (Producer) - As per the usual, Alabama will depend on the talent and leadership of a stud middle linebacker, and the one to take that role this season is Reggie Ragland. The preseason first team All-SEC selection will be an integral part of an Alabama defense that could be the best defense under Nick Saban since the 2011 squad. His performance will be a direct correlation to the success of the entire defense.

Trey Brooks (Producer) - Alabama needs a true field general on defense, and Reggie Ragland has the experience to be that guy.

Kevin Connell (Contributor) - Reggie Ragland. After a brief flirtation with the NFL in January, the rising senior linebacker eventually opted to return for his final collegiate season with an intent to become a better-rounded player. Arguably the team’s defensive MVP last season in his first year as a starter, Ragland will prove to have made a wise choice. Named to four preseason watch lists – Bednarik Award, Nagurski Trophy, Butkus Award and Lombardi Award – in July, Ragland will once again anchor the defense from his inside linebacker position, this time, though, as one of the unit’s most experienced players and leaders.

Ben George (Digital Managing Editor) - The Alabama defense is designed for a linebacker to flourish and Reggie Ragland will do that once again in 2015. It would be a shock if he wasn't the leader on defense this season. He could have a season that puts him among the greats at the position. As an honorary mention, I'll throw out Cyrus Jones. The defensive back will be a key piece to the secondary's improvement, which is exactly what the team will need to return to the CFB Playoff.