Coach Paul W. “Bear” Bryant’s first national title came in 1961, his 5th year at the University. However, it was the 1964 team that began the heart of a 15-year dynasty that would cement Bryant’s legacy as one of the best ever as Alabama won five national titles in that span — and that doesn’t include maybe the best team of the bunch, the undefeated, untied Missing Ring team of 1966.
For Alabama to succeed in 1964, the Tide would have to rely upon its defense. Although, it didn’t look like that would be the case after its September schedule concluded.