The duo led the Crimson Tide to the Final Four last year and returned to school in hopes of delivering the program’s first national title. But Bama’s supporting cast — specifically its bench — might be the key to making another deep run, especially with Nelson dealing with a left knee injury.

Alabama can put up points in bunches, never a bad thing when March Madness arrives. Nate Oats' high-octane offense earned a No. 2 seed in this year's NCAA Tournament. The Crimson Tide reside on the same portion of the bracket as 1-seed Duke.