Alphonse Taylor admits it was a bit of an exaggeration.

But the former Alabama offensive lineman’s point still stands. He was reacting to Matt Hayes’ comment that “10-2 would be an absolute tragedy for Alabama next year.” He added “11-1 might be a tragedy. It’s not fair but that’s how it is.”

Hayes made the comment on “The Paul Finebaum Show.”

“This take is egregious,” Taylor posted on “X,” the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “10-2 or even 11-1 under a new coach and staff after arguably the greatest coach ever retired would solidify the fact we have the right guy. In what world are those possible outcomes a tragedy? Hell, I’d be happy with 8 wins and a bowl win!”

He admitted in a later post that his 8-win comment was a bit of an exaggeration.

“But at the same time, he’s coming to the SEC for the first time, so I don’t think so,” Taylor posted. “Gotta give him time. (Nick) Saban was 7-6 year one. I know Bama is in a way better place this go around but still have to give ‘em breathing room.”

Most people on social media reacted, of course, to the 8-win comment more than anything, but his point is that any coach should be given time to establish a base line for a program. The fact that DeBoer is following the greatest coach of all time should not be dismissed.

And while Alabama is set up far better to succeed in 2024 than when Saban took over 17 years ago, that doesn’t mean there won’t be an adjustment period.

Time will tell.

Taylor, who played in Tuscaloosa from 2013-2016, is no stranger to hot takes. In January, he sounded off on the number of Alabama players hitting the transfer portal in the wake of Saban’s retirement.

Then, later in the month, there was that dust up with former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy, who called him out for being described as the “laziest dude on the roster.” McElroy later apologized.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.