Top 25 teams: No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide

<p><b>6. ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE</b></p><p><b>2008 record:</b> 12-2</p><p><b>Returning starters offense/defense:</b> 4/9.</p><p><b>Strength:</b> Returning nine starters from a unit that ranked third in total defense in 2008 will make the Tide a tough team to face in 2009. The return of first-team All-SEC selection Terrence Cody at defensive tackle will give Alabama’s run defense a big boost.</p><p><b>Weakness:</b> The offensive line has numerous holes to fill after losing three starters. The departures of Andre Smith and Antoine Caldwell leave the Tide wit serious issues on the offensive front. Couple that with a new starting running back (Mark Ingram) and a new quarterback and inexperience could spell trouble.</p><p><b>Biggest star:</b> Sophomore wide receiver Julio Jones came in as a heralded recruit and did not disappoint. Jones started all 14 games his freshman season and fell just short of 1,000 yards receiving while averaging almost 16 yards per catch.</p><p><b>Rising star:</b> Junior linebacker Rolando McClain earned third-team All-America honors during the 2008 season, and led the Tide in total tackles with 95. He is already on the Lombardi Award watch list and could go down as one of the best linebackers Alabama has ever had.</p><p> <b>Toughest game:</b> The Tide start with a trip to Atlanta to face a solid Virginia Tech team on Sep. 5, but their biggest game will be at home against LSU on Nov. 7. This matchup could not only decide the SEC West, but might have national title implications.</p>