He restored the toughness, energy, competitive fire, and a level of respect to the Crimson Tide’s defense.

Alabama played with more confidence in one season under Steele than five years with Pete Golding. Steele, 65, coached Alabama to a Southeastern Conference Championship and returned it to the College Football Playoff. Chris Low of ESPN reported Monday that Steele plans to retire from coaching. He’s invested 10 years in the state of Alabama, which started in 2007 as he was the Tide’s defensive coordinator, so now he earns the state retirement pension. Tide fans appreciated what Steele did for its team in one season. They wished him the best on social media as he enters retirement after becoming an SEC Championship last season.

We will see who Alabama hires or elevates from within to replace Steele.