The state of Alabama is known for a few things in the world of football. That notable rivalry between the East and West sides of the state that causes chaos is one of them. That team in Tuscaloosa known for winning is another one. Tuscaloosa is home to The Crimson Tide, as we all know, but that isn’t the only football looming. The Alabama Steel, a non-profit developmental semi-pro football league, also calls Tuscaloosa home. The Steel, founded in 2017 by owner Jeff Eiland, has become a force in the semi-pro football circuit. In 2019, the Steel landed themselves a divisional championship and have remained strong in the top five in league rankings consistently throughout seasons. Although this will be their first season with the American Football Alliance, the preseason rankings have them at number 3 to kick off the season.
A little intro…
The Steel organization leadership goes beyond the football field. The mentorship of the program provides its athletes with job opportunities, help with college admissions, and networking opportunities. The typical college to the NFL track isn’t in the cards for every athlete, however, the Steel gives those athletes a chance to deal their own hand. Eiland is adamant about the organization’s purpose, stating that football is like life. “How will you react when you’re down, when you’re hit hard, or even when you’re winning?”, Eiland said. “God has placed me here to help change the area and lives around me, around us, and it is through this sport, football. That is what the Steel is for.”
“The young men work so hard for this chance, because most of these guys have been overlooked. This is that next step to actually show off their talent once again.”
Jeff Eiland, Owner
The coaches, staff, and players work on a volunteer basis, proving their love for the game is a driving force in their commitment.
Week 1 Recap:
The Steel had their home opener Saturday with an 18-14 win against fellow Alabama-native team, the Birmingham Chargers. The first quarter was all in the Steel’s favor. A handoff to Jeremy Hunter put the first points on the board for the Steel, giving them a 6-0 lead after a failed 2-point conversion attempt. Six more points hit the board for the Steel on a combo plate from quarterback Daeveon Sistrunk to wide-receiver Deramie Prince, Sr. putting the Steel up 12-0 after a blocked 2-pt attempt. The Chargers docked on six at the end of the second quarter, narrowing the Steel lead to six.
The Steel defense held the Chargers on the 2-pt conversion at the hands of Cam’Ron Travis and defensive-end Ant Donald. The defense busted up the Chargers’ next possession with defensive end Charlie Powell forcing a fumble that turned into a touchdown for the Steel, compliments of Jarious Love on the scoop. The Chargers added on to the final score in the fourth quarter, but couldn’t catch up.
From the Coach’s Desk––
Head Coach Le’Von Pears, was impressed with the team’s win but addressed what needed to be tended to. Pears experimented with his talent in this first game and has confidence in their abilities as a team.
“It was good to get a win. As coaches we saw a lot of good and saw alot we need to work on. We were able to play alot of people and see what we have going forward in the season.”
Le’Von Pears, Head Coach
The team’s quarterback and wide receivers coach, DeVante’ Brown, says there’s plenty of room to improve on offense. Brown is adamant in making the changes necessary to progress positively.
“Honestly, it was an ugly but gritty win. We didn’t find consistency on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterbacks have to be more consistent no matter who’s in, and that’s on us as coaches to make sure they’re better prepared and making sure we’re calling the plays that fit the personnel we have in.”
DeVante’ Brown, QB/WR Coach
The Steel takes on the Biloxi Dragons at home Saturday, March 5th at 6:30. Live updates will be available through the team’s Facebook page and Twitter.
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