The areas Alabama running back Daniel Hill wants to get better at

Every Alabama fan knows the Crimson Tide’s run game left more than just a little bit to be desired last season. But it’s also no secret that the running back room is nowhere near short on talent, especially with Daniel Hill returning for his junior year.

At 244 pounds last season, Hill’s size didn’t slow him down at all; it contributed to him establishing himself as a dominant run-through-your-face tailback, who still maintains lethal speed, after he recorded 284 yards and six touchdowns last season.

But now, as Hill prepares to take over, likely as the Tide’s lead running back, he’s already begun priming himself physically for a standout year, cutting down about 10 pounds, honing in on his diet and doing more cardio.

However, as spring practice has ramped up, the running back room has been focusing on refining its skills. With hopes of a more productive 2026 campaign, Hill spoke after practice on Monday about what the room is actively working to improve on.

“Just being more explosive and just seeing the field better,” Hill said. “Just running behind our pads, just doing all of the little things right that can not only help us, but help the [offensive line] as a whole.”

A successful run game next season will certainly be the result of collaborative effort from the running backs and the offensive line, something that was missing last year, as both positional groups periodically struggled throughout the season.

Hill also told reporters that he has a plan for himself to become a better player and teammate to contribute to overall success.

“Pass pro[tection],” Hill said. “I wanted to do better in pass pro. I know I gave up a few sacks last year, and as a running back, that just can’t happen. You know, we’ve got to protect the quarterback. Yeah, that’s something I feel like I need to work on.”

Pass protection as a running back is an extremely valuable skill, and often something that goes overlooked and undervalued. But Hill knows what he needs to do to ensure that he can really fine-tune his blocking abilities.

“Just really technique and knowing when to use technique,” Hill said. “Knowing where to go, that’s one part. But actually blocking the guy, that’s a whole different aspect of the game, and that’s something I feel like I need to continue to work on… It’s gotten better, but as a player, I always feel like I can get better at a different area. It’s something I really need to continue to work on.”

Fans can get their first look at Daniel Hill and the rejuvenated, motivated running back room when the Crimson Tide holds its annual A-Day scrimmage, which will also showcase the revamped offensive line in charge of blocking for the tailbacks.