The depth of the Alabama football squad was on display this Saturday in Bryant-Denny Stadium more than ever before.
Earlier this season, Alabama struggled against a modest University of South Florida squad, barely winning 17-3. With Chattanooga, another tiny opponent, visiting Tuscaloosa this weekend, it was unclear whether the squad would handle its business or play down to the level of the other team, as it did in Tampa in mid-September.
The outcomes of the two games were radically different. The Crimson Tide handled the visiting Chattanooga Mocs admirably.In a week like this, as the season comes to a close and the postseason approaches, this game versus Chattanooga showcases the team’s improvement beyond the starting lineup.
Following the Crimson Tide’s 66-10 victory, head coach Nick Saban spoke on the team’s improvement and the work it put forth in practice.
“It is always the goal that your team grows and develops,” he remarked. “Obviously, I believe that this team got off to a rocky start. But I believe that a lot of guys have made a significant contribution to the development of this club.”
Beginning in the second half, Saban decided to rest many of his starters in favor of younger, untested players, including redshirt freshman Ty Simpson, who took over at quarterback.
This is Simpson’s third game of the season in which he has seen considerable action. He filled in for redshirt sophomore Tyler Buchner against South Florida, rallying the Crimson Tide to a lopsided victory. He also played the most of the fourth quarter against Kentucky, helping to seal the game.
Simpson, like Milroe, has improved in his limited time in the starting lineup.
Simpson went 4-6 today, throwing for 50 yards. He also ran the ball once for 78 yards, the longest run by the Crimson Tide this season.
However, what appeared to be a certain touchdown changed into a first and goal for the Crimson Tide attack, as Simpson fumbled the ball before crossing the goal line.
The Crimson Tide, on the other hand, exhibited the most depth at the running back position.
The ground game dominated, with numerous different running backs entering the game and having their moments to shine. Simpson led the Crimson Tide in rushing with one 78-yard carry, followed by sophomore Jamarion Miller with 77 yards on six carries. Today, several different ball carriers found the end zone. Four different running backs scored at least one touchdown, giving the Crimson Tide attack five rushing touchdowns.
So far this season, the Crimson Tide have
Haynes’ performance stuck out to Saban throughout the game.”Justice is a really good player,” Saban stated. “Due to the depth of that position, he probably hasn’t gotten as many opportunities as we would have liked for him to.” I was extremely happy with how he played; near the conclusion of the game, he made an unbelievable run for a score.”
Of course, the offensive line is crucial in the run game, and the Crimson Tide offensive line did not let up until the last whistle blew. With so many different guys having strong rushing performances, it is easy to assume the Crimson Tide’s rushing offense has a bright future.
The depth extends past the running back position. Younger players were given playing time.
The Alabama Crimson Tide trounced the Chattanooga Mocs, a victory that will fuel the team’s preparation for the Iron Bowl next Saturday
