Will Anderson pokes fun at Bryce Young when talking Alabama pass rush during spring game

Will Anderson is used to making opposing quarterbacks feel his wrath. It almost comes second nature to the Alabama star linebacker. However, Anderson has to dial it down when going up against star Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young.

Following the Alabama spring game, Anderson was asked if it’s difficult to stop himself from hitting Young in those situations.

“Not that difficult when you know, who’s back there throwing the ball, and how much the team needs him and values him,” responded Anderson. “Or you’re going to get your butt chewed out. So, all spring we’ve been very cautious of touching Bryce.”

While opposing quarterbacks are terrified of Anderson, the star Alabama linebacker is scared of what Nick Saban would do if Anderson treated Young like an opposing SEC quarterback. Additionally, Crimson Tide linebacker Henry To’oTo’o followed Anderson’s sentiment, proving Alabama has one of the smartest linebacker rooms in the country.

“We love Bryce too much to hit him,” added To’oTo’o.

Continuing, Anderson gave his thoughts on the Alabama pass rush as a whole, and their performance throughout the spring.

“As far as pass rush, I think one of the biggest things was the younger guys learned the plays,” stated Anderson. “It was never like, the ability. It was just learning the plays, and I think this year is going to be something special. I think you guys talk about the 2016 defense pass rush, I feel like you guys can definitely get ready to see that again. Because we have a lot of talented young guys on the edge, and in the defensive line room. It’s going to be something special this year.”

Will Anderson won’t be hitting Bryce Young, but it’s evident the Alabama stars are ready to attempt to make history for the Crimson Tide next season.

Nick Saban jokes with the media when talking about Will Anderson

Nick Saban fully understands the importance of Will Anderson to the Alabama Crimson Tide defense.

Anderson was one of the top defenders in the country last season and is back in Tuscaloosa for another run in 2022. The Alabama head coach was asked about the star linebacker following Saturday’s spring game.

“Yeah he played well,” Saban said of Anderson’s production in 2021. “Will is a great competitor. So every situation that he’s in, whether it’s practice — regardless of the situation, he gives 100 percent. He sets a great example for the other guys on the team, he’s a really good leader. I think his knowledge of the defense and the things we are going to ask him to do. You know he did really well last year. Hopefully he can continue to make progress in a lot of areas.”

Nick Saban then pivoted and had a little fun with the media when talking about Anderson.

“Somebody asked me the other day ‘what’s Will’s weakness’? And I said he has to learn more about pass coverage because he plays a position where every now and then he has to drop. But you all are all gurus of the game so should we spend a lot of time on having him drop or rush,” Saban said with a grin waiting for a response from the media.

“So his weakness is pass coverage?” Saban joked. “But he helps the pass defense when he sacks the quarterback.”