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2008 was one of the best recruiting years for Alabama since... well, ever. Since their first game against Clemson in late August of 2008, the class has posted a mark of 47-6. Yes, that is correct. 6 losses over 4 years.

Their very first time on the field, this class asserted itself as a possible platform for an Alabama dynasty. And they have yet to disappoint. In their first appearance vs Clemson, freshmen Julio Jones and Mark Ingram set the stage for the class. Julio would catch 4 passes and a Touchdown, while Ingram would log 96 yards on 17 carries to set the stage for the next 46 wins. Although, Ingram and Jones (as well as Dareus) have not be a part of the last 11 wins for this class, it is safe to say the win total of 47 would not be any lower had the 3 stuck around.
The 2008 class also produced a couple unlikely heroes. Robert Lester was supposed to be just a way to lock down Julio Jones. Instead, he used the 2010 season to pick off a team high 8 passes on the year. Although not necessarily "unlikely," Barrett Jones has proven to be one of the most versatile linemen Alabama has had in decades and he is the clear and vocal leader of the line.
In November, the class would help tear Auburn's 6 game hold on Alabama to absolute shreds, by a score of 36-0. In 2009, the class of '08 would lead Alabama to a National Championship, including convincing wins over LSU and Florida, and a 5 point victory on the road in the Iron Bowl to give Alabama its first 2 game streak in the series since before the turn of the century.
In 2010, the class would suffer its most disappointing year with painful losses to South Carolina, LSU, and Auburn. But it would resurrect the team's spirit in the 2011 Capital One Bowl by beating Michigan State 49-7, and setting the stage for another championship run in 2011.
This year, the class of '08 has tacked on 11 more wins, but has suffered, arguably, the most disappointing loss of their tenure as Alabama players. I am sure if you asked any one of them which game in their 4 years would they want to do over, it would be a near unanimous answer of the November 5th matchup with LSU. Still, they may get another shot at LSU in the title game.
Currently, the class sits at 1 National title, an SEC title, and 2 SEC West Division titles, as well as a Butkus Award (rolando) and a Heisman Trophy among other numerous individual awards. Safe to say, this is the most successful class in recent memory, and for that we thank them for all the things they have done for Alabama football, on and off the field.

Thanks again for your efforts, and ROLL TIDE to the Class of '08!

true, Brandon, I had not thought of that. I guess my mind was stuck more post-NC. Very true, and I think you may be right about that.