The definition of an “X-factor,” says Merriam-Webster (you know, the dictionary people), is “a circumstance, quality or person that has a strong but unpredictable influence.” When it comes to football, then, think of an “X-factor” as a player who could make – or break – an offense or a defense.
Here are Alabama’s X-factors this season.
Offense
WR Robert Foster: While Calvin Ridley had a breakout season for the Tide in 2015, it’s Foster (6 feet 2, 191 pounds) who was the team’s top No. 1 wide receiver until an season-ending shoulder injury derailed his promising start (10 receptions, two TDs in the first three games).