TUSCALOOSA—After resting against Mississippi State and UT-Chattanooga, Alabama’s Bo Scarbrough gave Crimson Tide fans and recruits something to cheer about during Saturday’s Iron Bowl game.
He returned from a bruised knee to anchor the Tide’s rushing attack, totaling 90 yards on 17 carries.
The sophomore’s latest outing was a product of patience and tiring out Auburn’s defensive front, as six of his 17 attempts went for first downs. Scarbrough averaged 5.3 yards per tot, with his longest run going for 20 yards in the third quarter—setting up a four-yard touchdown run from Jalen Hurts.
Nice Run! Bo #BamavsAU pic.twitter.com/hNmwPebCdK
— BamaVideo (@BamaVideo_) November 26, 2016
This week’s meeting against the Tigers was Scarbrough’s second-best outing on the ground, following his 100-yard performance against Tennessee (109 yards, touchdown) on Oct. 15. Sixteen of his 17 rushes came in the second half, as the goal was to settle Hurts down. Coach Nick Saban praised the job of his offensive line in the second half, but also displayed much love to his 6-foot-2, 228-pound back that showed up after two weeks.
“Bo Scarbrough did a really good job in the second half,” Saban said. “I think all of our backs did, but he hadn’t played for a while and it was a big boost for him getting those runs.”
While ArDarius Stewart improved upon his own career numbers, he was one of multiple players that spoke to the media after the game. The junior wide receiver was very proud of Scarbrough.
“He’s (Bo Scarbrough) one of my best friends,” Stewart said. “After he made the runs, I went to him and told him ‘that’s the Bo I know.’ He came in running hard when he was a younger guy and he came into his own tonight.”
With Scarbrough’s contribution, Alabama dominated time of possession. It kept Auburn’s defense on the field, which led to a 30-12 win. The Tide now meets Florida for next week’s Southeastern Conference title game.
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.
