Alabama’s return game last year was hit-or-miss. The Tide could reliably be counted upon to have to drive the distance when it returned kicks: There simply was no game breaker at kick returner. That dark cloud had a silver lining though. Unlike 2015, the kick returners did not take one for a touchdown, but nor did it turn the ball over. That is a mixed blessing to be sure: Risk/reward versus steady 20-yard returns.
The punt return game was excellent again, however...or at least it was until the third saturday in October (not that 3rd Saturday, though.