How Good Can Yhonzae Pierre Be? The Joe Gaither Show

Let's crank up a Tuesday edition of "The Joe Gaither Show on BamaCentral" with Theo Fernandez as we talk about what we observed at Alabama's football practice with a focus on the Crimson Tide defense.

The program begins on the voicemail line where our caller discusses Alabama edge rusher Yhonzae Pierre. The program debates Pierre's sack total in 2026, asking if he can get to double digits after securing eight last season. The conversation stays with Pierre as our caller asked about SEC Defensive Player possibilities and projecting Pierre to the NFL Draft.

Practice Report from Alabama's Sixth Fall Camp Practice

Gaither says Pierre will have between seven and 12 sacks in 2026, but that's not all he can do to impact opposing offenses. We discuss former Alabama pass rushers and whether Pierre can live up to their legacy before taking a broader look at the position and comparing him to Dylan Stewart and Collin Simmons.

Alabama DC Kane Wommack Encourages Young Linebacker To Be Himself Ahead of Sophomore Season

Lastly, the program discusses Alabama's defense trying to decide how good the unit can be. Can the Crimson Tide defense stand up on its own and support an offense that may take some time to get rolling? Fernandez and Gaither discuss how the defense performed in 2025, in particular against the better offenses they faced, and ask if this year's unit can keep the program in games.

What Nick Saban Saw from Alabama's Defense, What Kane Wommack is Doing to Improve It

We're so appreciative of our sponsors who make the show possible. Check out Derek Daniel State Farm in Alabama for your insurance needs. Like a good neighbor, Derek Daniel is there. We're also proud to partner with Purple Turtle Roofing on the program. From your first call to the final nail, our mission is to make sure you feel confident, cared for, and covered, literally.

Call (205) 462-7340 Extension 800 to leave your thoughts in a voicemail, and you'll be featured on the show. You can also join us live in the comment sections Monday through Friday at 8:30 a.m. CT.

The show can be seen on the BamaCentral YouTube channel. Keep up with each show on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. Shows can also be heard on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon.

Sign up to our free newsletter and follow us on Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Threads and Blue Sky for the latest news.

Alabama Crimson Tide On SI

Add us as a preferred source on Google