No shenanigans will occur tonight, as Alabama escapes “The Grove” with a 48-43 win.
A combination of Jalen Hurts and Damien Harris in the run game, mixed with huge plays on defense and special teams, helped the Crimson Tide pull out victory. Hurts led Alabama’s rushing attack with 146 yards on 18 carries, while totaling 158 passing yards on 19 of 31 completions. Harris chimed in with 144 yards rushing and a score on 16 tries. Calvin Ridley anchored the Tide in receiving, accounting for 81 yards on eight catches.
Rebels’ quarterback Chad Kelly gave a valiant effort, tossing for 421 yards and three touchdowns.
Ole Miss’ defense was able to disrupt Alabama’s timing in the first half, only to then be worn down by its run game for the remainder the contest. Defensively, the Tide held Mississippi to 106 rushing yards and five third down conversions. Reuben Foster, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Jonathan Allen and Ryan Anderson all had a solid impact on the game, combining for 26 tackles (Foster, 12 tackles), a sack, an interception and a touchdown.
Eddie Jackson’s 85-yard punt return touchdown in the second quarter was the start to erasing a 18-point deficit (24-13, Ole Miss). Alabama will take a 3-0 mark back to Tuscaloosa next week to face Kent State.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
