BUILT BY BAMA: How Former Alabama Standouts Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Landon Dickerson Led the Philadelphia Eagles to Super Bowl Glory

In the grand theater of the NFL, few storylines resonate as deeply as a Super Bowl win fueled by a triumvirate of former college stars who dominated the gridiron together before turning professional. The Philadelphia Eagles’ recent Super Bowl victory is one such narrative, one built on the foundation of three remarkable athletes who honed their craft at the University of Alabama—Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Landon Dickerson.

This win is not just a triumph for Philadelphia’s franchise or its passionate fan base; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Alabama football and its unique ability to develop elite NFL talent. From Tuscaloosa to the City of Brotherly Love, these players brought with them grit, precision, and championship pedigree that galvanized the Eagles and cemented their place in NFL history.

Alabama football is more than a collegiate program; it’s a pipeline of elite talent, coached by one of the greatest college coaches ever, Nick Saban. Known for discipline, adaptability, and toughness, the program prepares players not just to succeed in college but to thrive in the professional ranks.

Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Landon Dickerson each represent a different facet of Alabama’s comprehensive player development system. Their time under Saban was formative: instilling not only technical skills but an unwavering mindset that champions resilience and leadership.

Jalen Hurts’s story is one of perseverance and transformation. A highly touted recruit, Hurts initially gained national attention as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, leading Alabama to an appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship as a true freshman. Despite losing the starting job to Tua Tagovailoa, Hurts’s leadership qualities never waned.

In Philadelphia, Hurts blossomed into a dynamic NFL quarterback with a dual-threat capability few defenses could contain. His Alabama experience, where he learned both to manage pressure and execute complex game plans, served as a blueprint for his success.

Hurts’s 2024 season was spectacular—showcasing his growth as a passer, his command of the offense, and his ability to escape pressure with athleticism. His poise in high-pressure moments, especially during the Super Bowl, epitomized the leadership values ingrained during his college career.

No story of Alabama’s NFL pipeline is complete without mentioning DeVonta Smith, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner and one of the most electrifying wide receivers in the league. Smith’s route-running precision, sure hands, and ability to create separation made him an offensive weapon from the moment he entered the league.

Smith’s journey from Alabama’s star receiver to Philadelphia’s go-to target illustrates the seamless transition of elite collegiate skills to the professional game. His ability to read defenses and adjust routes on the fly is a testament to the coaching and football IQ developed in Tuscaloosa.

In the Super Bowl, Smith’s clutch catches and yard-after-catch ability broke open critical drives, consistently energizing the Eagles’ offense and keeping their opponents on their heels. His contribution wasn’t just statistical; it was the spark that ignited Philadelphia’s championship run.

While quarterbacks and receivers often get the spotlight, Landon Dickerson’s role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory cannot be overstated. The Alabama product, who overcame significant injuries during his collegiate career, brought toughness and technical mastery to the offensive line.

Dickerson’s versatility on the line—capable of playing both center and guard at an elite level—proved invaluable. Protecting Jalen Hurts’s blind side and opening running lanes for the Eagles’ backs, Dickerson was the steady foundation on which the offense was built.

His Alabama training emphasized not only physical strength but also mental toughness and situational awareness—traits that were on full display as the Eagles battled through the trenches during the Super Bowl.

The journey to the championship was a culmination of years of dedication and perseverance for Hurts, Smith, and Dickerson. After being drafted by Philadelphia in separate years, their individual growth paralleled the Eagles’ rise as a serious contender.

The Eagles’ front office recognized the value of players molded by Alabama’s system—discipline, accountability, and high football IQ—and built a roster around those principles. The coaching staff tailored an offense that capitalized on Hurts’s dual-threat ability, Smith’s route-running, and Dickerson’s line versatility.

Their synergy on the field was unmistakable. Hurts’s trust in Smith made him the centerpiece of the passing game, while Dickerson’s blocking allowed Hurts the time and space to make plays. This trio’s Alabama background created a chemistry that transcended typical NFL rookie struggles or positional adjustments.

In the championship game, the Eagles showcased a balanced attack led by their Alabama stars. Hurts’s leadership was evident from the opening snap—commanding the huddle, making audibles, and keeping the offense fluid. His ability to both throw precise passes and execute critical runs kept the opposing defense guessing.

Smith was electric, making crucial catches in tight coverage and converting key third downs. His presence stretched the field and opened opportunities for the running game.

Meanwhile, Dickerson’s blocking was the backbone of the offensive line’s dominance. His assignments were executed flawlessly, giving Hurts protection and carving paths for the Eagles’ running backs. His physicality set the tone in the trenches, allowing the offense to control the line of scrimmage.

Together, these three players built an offensive juggernaut that was unstoppable. Their combined efforts led to a hard-fought victory that delighted Eagles fans and sent a message to the NFL: Alabama players are a force to be reckoned with.

While stats tell part of the story, the leadership qualities brought by these former Alabama stars played an even more significant role in Philadelphia’s championship run. Their experience with Saban’s demanding program fostered a mindset of accountability and continuous improvement.

Hurts, Smith, and Dickerson each embraced their roles as leaders on and off the field, mentoring younger teammates and fostering a culture of resilience. Their professionalism and work ethic set the tone for the entire team.

Their victory also serves as inspiration for future Alabama players, demonstrating that the path from college stardom to NFL greatness is attainable with dedication and the right mindset.

Philadelphia’s Super Bowl triumph fueled by Alabama talent is part of a broader trend. The Crimson Tide’s program consistently produces NFL-ready players, shaping the modern league’s landscape. Coaches and general managers recognize that players from Alabama bring not only physical talent but a deep understanding of the game’s nuances.

Hurts, Smith, and Dickerson exemplify this trend, blending athleticism with football intelligence and leadership. Their success continues to reinforce Alabama’s reputation as the preeminent football factory.

The Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, driven by the talents of Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and Landon Dickerson, is more than a championship story—it’s a testament to the power of a program that builds winners. Alabama football’s imprint on the NFL is undeniable, and this latest triumph only cements its legacy.

For the Eagles, the synergy of this trio forged a path to glory, blending grit, talent, and leadership into a championship formula. For the players, it’s the fulfillment of a journey that began in Tuscaloosa, fueled by a relentless drive to succeed.

Built by Bama, crowned by Eagles—the story of these three former Crimson Tide stars is a shining example of how college excellence translates to professional greatness.

If you want, I can also help you with a breakdown of each player’s stats from the Super Bowl or deeper analysis of the Eagles’ offensive scheme built around these Alabama stars! Would you like that?